By Abdullahi Yusuf
Kano State Government has condemned the barricading of the entrance to the Emir’s palace by armed security personnel.
This is contained in a statement issued by the State Commissioner of Information and Internal Affairs, Baba Halilu Dantiye, on Friday in Kano.
“The Kano State Government wishes to express its profound dismay and deep concern over the reported blockade of the entrance to the Kofar Kudu palace of the Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, by heavily armed security operatives.
“This unfortunate development has raised tensions and caused distress among the residents of Kano and the surrounding communities.
“We strongly condemn any action that disrupts the peace or undermines the dignity of traditional institutions, which are central to the unity and cultural heritage of our people,” Dantiye said.
He said the state government is committed to the maintenance of peace, stability and the rule of law across the state.
He said the government is working to ascertain the reasons behind the incident and engage with the relevant authorities to ensure a swift and peaceful resolution.
The commissioner urged residents of the state to remain calm, law-abiding and continue with their normal activities and refrain from spreading unverified information that could fuel unnecessary panic and tension.
“The Kano State Government remains resolute in its commitment to protecting
the rights and welfare of its people and ensuring the continued stability of our great state,” he added.
Meanwhile,the Emir has warned residents of the state not to resort to violence in their response to the development.
“I warn you against falling into the traps of enemies of Kano who want to see Kano on fire. They always want to see killings, destruction of public property and maiming of innocent lives,” Sanusi said.
The Emir who sounded the warning in his Juma’at sermon at the Kano Central Mosque, said peaceful co-existence, no matter the provocation, is far better than violence.
“Islam has admonished you to be patient at any given time, weather in a difficult situation, or at peace, or you are attacked; with patience, one becomes great, but refusing to be patient creates uncertainty, difficulties and in the end, everyone loses,” he said.