The Kano State Government has accused the Federal Government of orchestrating the barricade of the palace of the 16th Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, by security forces on Friday.
Abdullahi Baffa Bichi, the Secretary to the State Government, made the allegations during a radio program, expressing shock over the development.
“We were surprised to wake up and see the police sealing off the palace entrance.
“Kano is peaceful, but there are individuals backed by Abuja who don’t want peace in the state,” Bichi stated.
He explained that the Emir had planned to escort his district head, Wamban Kano, to Bichi for prayers and formal duties, a decision disrupted by the security barricade.
“We were told the directive came from ‘above,’ which clearly points to the Federal Government,” Bichi added.
Despite the tension, he reassured that the state government remains committed to maintaining peace, asserting, “The district head appointment stands, and we will proceed with the planned escort when the Emir is ready.”
Meanwhile, Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II led the Friday prayer at Kano Central Mosque outside the palace and urged residents to remain calm and avoid violence.
“Beware of those who want to destabilize Kano by inciting violence and destruction,” the Emir warned.
The palace barricade reportedly aimed to prevent the Emir from accompanying the new district head to Bichi, though some sources speculated it might be linked to the Emir’s planned discussions on tax reform bills.
AFRIPOST had reported that security operatives, including police and DSS agents, had blocked the palace entrance earlier in the day, sparking widespread concern among Kano residents.