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KANO STATE GOVERNMENT FACES BACKLASH OVER N670M ALLOCATION FOR EMIR’S VEHICLES

The Kano State government has come under fire for instructing all 44 local government areas in the state to contribute a total of N670 million for the repairs and purchase of new vehicles for the Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II. According to a memo issued by the Ministry of Local Government, each local government area is expected to contribute N15,227,272.72. The directive, dated March 25, 2025, outlines the approval to repair two vintage vehicles and purchase four new ones for the Kano Emirate Council. The memo reveals that the funds would be used for the restoration and acquisition of high-end vehicles for the Emir, including a 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser VXR for N268 million and a 2024 Toyota Prado for N156 million. The allocation of such a significant sum for the Emir’s vehicles has sparked widespread criticism, particularly as many residents in Kano are dealing with ongoing infrastructural challenges. Alhaji Alhassan Yaryasa, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), condemned the expenditure, calling it a “misplacement of priorities.” “This is a complete wasteful expenditure,” Yaryasa said. “The Emir does not need new luxury cars while the masses suffer. The residents of Kano will not forgive this misuse of public funds.” A palace official confirmed that the directive and the funds were legitimate, revealing that efforts are already underway to bring in the vehicles and begin the restoration of the vintage cars. The controversy surrounding this directive is likely to impact Governor Abba Yusuf’s political standing, with calls for the governor to reconsider the decision and reallocate the funds to sectors such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure.

POLICE WITHDRAW INVITATION TO ALHAJI SANUSI, DIRECT FID OPERATIVES TO OBTAIN STATEMENT

The Nigeria Police Force has withdrawn its invitation to Alhaji Aminu Sanusi in connection with the unfortunate incident that occurred in Kano State during the Sallah celebration on March 30, 2025. Instead, operatives of the Force Intelligence Department (FID) have been directed to obtain Sanusi’s statement. In a statement, Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, said the decision to withdraw the invitation was made following advice from respected stakeholders and in line with the Inspector-General of Police’s commitment to ensuring that policing actions are not politicized or misinterpreted. Adejobi noted that credible intelligence indicated that the two disputed Emirs in Kano State, Alh Ado Bayero and Alh Lamido Sanusi, were planning to hold separate Durbar Festivals, which could lead to violence. Adejobi stated that despite a mutual agreement between the police and the disputed emirs that no Durbar Festival would be held, Sanusi decided to mount a horse in a procession after Eid Prayers on Sallah Day, accompanied by local vigilantes. This triggered a confrontation that led to the tragic death of one Usman Sagiru and left several others injured. Adejobi reiterated that the police had earlier warned against this action and intended to avert it. The Nigeria Police Force remains committed to conducting its criminal investigation duties with professionalism, and all individuals found culpable will be brought to justice. Some arrests have been made, and the Force wishes to reiterate that its actions are guided by the principles of justice, neutrality, and professionalism. Adejobi assured that the police will continue to investigate this incident with the highest level of professionalism.

EMIR SANUSI SUMMONED OVER SALLAH CELEBRATION INCIDENT

The Nigeria Police Force has formally invited the 16th Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, to an investigative meeting regarding an incident that occurred during the recent Sallah celebration. The invitation, dated April 4, 2025, and signed by Commissioner of Police (Operations), CP Olajide Rufus Ibitoye, requests the Emir to report to the Force Intelligence Department headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, by 10:00 a.m. The incident in question involves an alleged killing and attack on vigilante members that occurred within the Emir’s entourage after Eid prayers on March 30, 2025. One suspect, Usman Sagiru, 20, has already been arrested, and another individual, Shamakin Kano, Alhaji Wada Isyaku, has been invited for interrogation. The police had placed a restriction on durbar activities during the Sallah period due to concerns over safety and possible unrest. However, Emir Sanusi reportedly proceeded with the traditional Durbar processions, drawing large crowds and significant media attention on Sallah day and during the Hawan Nasarawa, which included a visit to the Government House. The invitation letter states, “I have the directive of the Inspector-General of Police, through the Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Force Intelligence Department (FID), to invite you for an investigative meeting regarding an incident that occurred during the Sallah celebrations within your domain.” The Emir’s presence is required for a thorough investigation.