Police Seals Palace Ahead of District Head’s Arrival

Tension rose in Bichi Local Government Area of Kano State on Friday as the police sealed up the gates of the Bichi Emir’s palace. The closure coincided with the scheduled arrival of a newly appointed district head, raising a number of questions and causing unease among residents and local leaders.

Eyewitnesses narrated how security personnel stopped village and ward heads from entering the palace premises when they converged to welcome the incoming majesty. This event disrupted all plans and added to the increasing suspense on who the event was meant for.

Following these concerns, which have gone up a notch lately, the Chairman of the Bichi Local Government Council, Alhaji Hamza Mai Fata, urged the public to maintain peace. “We call on our people to remain calm and law-abiding while the situation is unfolding,” he further appealed for cooperation and patience.

A statement signed by Tasiu Jibo Dawanau, Information Officer to the local government, explained that what was earlier scheduled by the Kano Emirate was called off. It assured that the area was in order, adding that there was no disruption in the area’s daily activities. However, the reason and motive behind the sudden police actions and the event cancellation were not explained.

This incident has brought lots of tension within Kano’s traditional institution. There have also been recent controversies on the Emirate system following legal disputes and government interventions. A recent court ruling nullified actions that fragmented the Kano Emirate in 2019, reinstating Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II while challenging the status of other emirs, including those in Bichi, Gaya, and Karaye​.

Another related development is that security forces have reportedly restricted access to another royal palace in the state to further muddy the dynamics in Kano’s traditional leadership. These observers link the move to the deeper frictions over Emirates governance and administration already acrimonious and politicized in the last couple of years.

Until Bichi gets further explanation, many have hoped that the resident would get a peaceful resolution respectful of the integrity of traditional institutions and observance of the rule of law. For now, the palace gates remain shut.