Edo Killing: Emir Sanusi II Urges Calm Amid Kano Reprisal Threats

The Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, has called for calm and restraint among youths in the state, urging them not to take the law into their own hands by attacking innocent non-indigenes.

His appeal comes in response to the gruesome killing of 16 Hausa travelers in Uromi, Esan North-East Local Government Area of Edo State last week.

Addressing worshippers after leading the Eid-el-Fitr prayer at the Kofar Mata Eid ground in Kano on Sunday, the revered monarch condemned the heinous act and implored the youths to shun any form of retaliation against non-indigenous communities in the state.

“We received reports on Saturday evening that some youths in certain areas are planning to launch reprisal attacks on non-indigenes after the Eid prayers. We strongly instruct them not to carry out such actions,” Emir Sanusi stated.

The traditional ruler emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and urged young people to allow justice to take its course rather than resort to violence.

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“We appeal to them not to take laws into their own hands. They should avoid a breakdown of law and order. We call on all traditional leaders to be vigilant and ensure that no act of violence erupts in their domains,” he added.

Furthermore, the Emir called on relevant authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the killing of the travelers and ensure that the perpetrators are swiftly brought to justice.

“We appeal to the government and security agencies to ensure justice for the victims by identifying and prosecuting those responsible for this barbaric act. A comprehensive investigation must be conducted, and concrete steps must be taken to hold those responsible accountable,” he said.

Sanusi II also urged residents to uphold the long-standing tradition of peaceful coexistence among different ethnic groups in Kano, warning that any acts of violence would only escalate tensions and cause further harm.

The tragic incident in Edo State has sparked outrage across the country, with many calling for swift government action to prevent such occurrences in the future.

Meanwhile, security agencies in Kano have heightened surveillance in response to intelligence reports indicating possible attacks by aggrieved youths.

The Emir’s intervention is seen as a crucial step in averting a potential crisis, as community leaders and security agencies work to prevent any retaliatory attacks that could further inflame ethnic tensions in the country.