- Confusion surrounds the blockade; speculation links it to royal events and state-level interventions.
Kano witnessed heightened tension on Friday as armed police and DSS operatives surrounded the palace of Muhammadu Sanusi II, the 16th Emir of Kano, blocking its entrances and exits. The motive for this unprecedented action remains unclear, although palace insiders suggest it could be tied to the Emir’s planned attendance at a royal event in Bichi Local Government Area, where a new district head was to receive a staff of office.
Reports indicate that the Emir had been preparing to depart for the ceremony when security forces arrived, effectively placing him under restricted movement. A state delegation sent by Governor Abba Yusuf to mediate the situation was reportedly denied entry to the palace by the barricading forces.
There are additional claims that the blockade may relate to broader state-level disputes or reform measures, including proposed tax legislation. However, officials from both the state government and the Emirate Council have yet to issue formal statements.
Meanwhile, the ceremony in Bichi was disrupted, leaving attendees stranded as security personnel also cordoned off the venue. Observers note that this development comes amid lingering political tension and power shifts within Kano’s traditional and political structures, deepening speculation about the underlying reasons for the blockade.
The situation remains fluid, with the palace yet to comment on the unfolding events. Many Kano residents have taken to social media to express their concerns about the implications of this unprecedented action.
