There was a heavy presence of security personnel, including policemen, soldiers, and officials of the Department of State Services, among others, at the Gidan Sarki Nasarawa, where the dethroned Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado Bayero, resides, Sunday PUNCH can confirm. This follows the reinstatement of Muhammadu Sanusi II as the Emir of Kano by Governor Abba Yusuf.
One of our correspondents observed soldiers stationed at strategic places within the metropolis, including the residence of the current Emir of Kano, Sanusi Lamido Sanusi II, and the Kano State Government House, as part of efforts to beef up security amid the power tussle in the emirate.
Sanusi was reinstated after the House of Assembly repealed the law signed by the former governor, Abdullahi Ganduje, which split the Kano Emirate into five domains. The law reinstated Sanusi as the central Emir of Kano and removed all the other Emirs appointed by Ganduje.
The tension escalated as the deposed Emir, Aminu Ado Bayero, returned to Kano on Saturday amidst cheers from his supporters. Following his dethronement, Bayero had been asked to vacate his palace but his return to Kano on Saturday raised concerns.
In a statement by the Director-General, Media and Publicity, Government House, Kano, Governor Yusuf ordered the immediate arrest of Bayero for allegedly creating tension in the state.
Meanwhile, despite the ongoing feud, the ancient city of Kano remained calm as residents continued with their normal activities. Security agencies assured residents of their safety and vowed to prevent a breakdown of law and order in the state.
A closed-door meeting between Governor Yusuf, Emir Sanusi, and top security chiefs was held earlier in the day but details of the discussion were not disclosed. The Governor and other officials were still with Emir Sanusi at the main palace while Bayero remained in the Nasarawa palace.
Security agencies reiterated their commitment to enforcing the court order restraining the state government from dissolving the newly created emirates in the state, ensuring the safety and security of all residents.
