In a dramatic turn of events, armed security personnel took control of the main palace of the Kano Emir at Kofar Kudu in the early hours of Friday, restricting entry and exit.
.jpg)
This development coincided with the planned visit of Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II to accompany Alhaji Munir Sanusi, the newly-appointed Wamban Kano, to his district posting in Bichi.
The palace takeover has caused significant disruption, with several traditional rulers and titleholders stranded inside.
Many were forced to abandon their vehicles and make their way on foot to the central mosque for Friday prayers.
The reasons behind the heightened security presence remain shrouded in mystery, fueling speculation and concern across the state.
Bichi, a district linked to the unfolding drama, is one of the four emirates established by former Governor Abdullahi Ganduje, later dissolved by his successor, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf.
Sources have also confirmed that the Bichi Emir’s Palace is under similarly tight security, with armed policemen stationed around the area.
Efforts to reach the Kano State Police Command Public Relations Officer, Abdullahi Haruna, for clarification were unsuccessful, as his phone remained unreachable.
Meanwhile, eyewitnesses reported that security operatives continued to maintain a heavy presence at the palace, enforcing a lockdown that restricted both human and vehicular movement.
A source within the palace revealed that the monarch, Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II, remained inside while visitors had left to attend Friday prayers.
The unusual deployment of armed personnel has left many questioning the motives behind this sudden escalation, as the situation continues to unfold under the watchful eye of security forces.
The unexpected takeover has added to the growing uncertainty surrounding traditional institutions in Kano, particularly in light of the controversial emirate restructuring that has polarized opinions in the state.