Kano, Nigeria – Following the reinstatement of Emir Sanusi Lamido Sanusi II, security has been tightened in Kano State, with a heavy presence of security personnel, including policemen, soldiers, and Department of State Services officials.
The development comes after Governor Abba Yusuf signed a new law repealing the creation of four emirates by former Governor Abdullahi Ganduje, leading to Sanusi’s reinstatement as the 16th Emir of Kano.
Sanusi, who was dethroned in 2020, returned to the palace on Saturday, accompanied by Governor Yusuf and other government officials. However, the deposed Emir, Aminu Ado Bayero, has refused to vacate the palace, citing a court order restraining the state government from dissolving the emirates.
The situation has led to a tense atmosphere in the state, with security agencies deploying personnel to strategic locations, including the palaces of the two monarchs, the Government House, and other sensitive areas. The police commissioner, Usaini Gumel, has assured residents of the state’s commitment to maintaining law and order.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has criticized the federal government’s deployment of soldiers in Kano, describing it as an “upset to the peace and security of the state, and a breach of the constitution.” He urged the government to respect the rule of law and allow the people of Kano to resolve the issue amicably.
The New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) has accused supporters of former Governor Ganduje of attempting to cause chaos in Kano to pave the way for a state of emergency.
However, Ganduje’s aide, Chief Oliver Okpala, described the development as a “palace coup” and a desperate move by the Kwankwasiyya movement and the governor to desecrate his principal’s legacies in the state.
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has urged all parties involved to respect the rule of law and avoid self-help, while the forum of Islamic clergy in Kano, Ulama, has called on President Bola Tinubu to intervene and prevent any actions that may lead to a disruption of law and order in the state.