A group of angry youths reportedly stoned and booed Emir Muhammadu Sanusi on his way to the Kofar Kudu Palace shortly after his return from a trip to London.
The incident occurred near the Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital, known locally as Bakin Asibiti.
Eyewitnesses recounted that the youths, chanting “Bamayi,” expressed their displeasure with the Emir, particularly over his perceived role in the removal of fuel subsidies, which has caused economic hardship across the country. Security personnel intervened to prevent harm to the Emir.
“The youths were angry with the Emir over his role in the removal of fuel subsidy from day one. People don’t care to even wave at him as there was a poor turnout in the mobilisation of people by Kano government officials,” a local trader, who wished to remain anonymous, told Politics Digest.
Emir Sanusi had just arrived in Nigeria from London via Lagos, where he was welcomed at the Murtala Muhammad International Airport by his Chief of Staff, Munir Sanusi, and Dan Isan Kano, Kabiru Tijjani Hashim.
The Emir had been in London to defend his PhD thesis on Islamic Law.
Despite support from the Kano State government, Emir Sanusi appears to be losing popularity among the public, primarily due to his advocacy for the removal of fuel subsidies.
In a related development, Emir Bayero embarked on his first trip since the incident, reportedly making a private visit, though some sources claim it was an official journey to attend a traditional leaders’ meeting in Abuja.
Emir Bayero was accompanied by a convoy to the Malam Aminu Kano International Airport, MAKIA, before departing for the nation’s capital.
Heavy security remains stationed around the Nassarawa mini palace, where Emir Bayero resides, reflecting ongoing concerns about potential unrest in the region.
Arewa Agenda