Tension escalated in Kano as police reportedly barricaded the palace of the Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, preventing him from attending a royal ceremony in Bichi Local Government Area.

The ceremony, which was to feature the presentation of a staff of office to the new District Head of Bichi, was disrupted as heavily armed security operatives, including armored personnel carriers (APCs), blocked the palace entrance, halting all movement.

According to a source within the Kano Emirate, the Emir, prepared to leave for the event, was reportedly ordered to remain indoors by the security forces. “The Emir has been on the phone trying to understand the situation,” the source said.

Attempts by Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf to mediate were also reportedly unsuccessful, as his representatives were denied entry into the palace. “His Excellency sent a delegation to engage with the Emir, but they were stopped at the barricade,” a source close to the governor disclosed.

Security personnel also cordoned off the event venue in Bichi, leaving attendees and organizers stranded.

When contacted, Kano State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Abdullahi Haruna, declined to comment on the matter, stating, “I cannot comment on this at the moment.”

The incident has sparked widespread speculation, with many attributing the action to political undertones. However, neither the state government nor the Emirate Council has issued an official statement.