Police cancel Sanusi invitation to Abuja, hold  interrogation  in Kano

The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has cancelled its invitation to the Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi, for questioning over the unfortunate incident that occurred in Kano State during the Sallah celebration on March 30, and resolved to hold the interrogation of the Emir in Kano.

The police expect the Emir to clarify himself on the events that led to the breakdown of law and order in Kano.

The Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO), Force Headquarters, Abuja, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi,   in a statement, indicated that following advice from respected stakeholders, and in line with the Inspector-General of Police’s commitment to ensuring that policing actions are not politicised or misinterpreted, the police boss directed that the invitation be withdrawn.

According to the FPRO, “Instead, operatives of the Force Intelligence Department (FID) have been mandated to proceed to Kano to obtain Sanusi’s statement.

“Prior to the Sallah Day celebration, intelligence at the disposal of the police indicated that the two disputed Emirs – Ado Bayero and Lamido Sanusi – were planning to hold separate Durbar festivals.”

It was noted that the festival is a long-held tradition which involves a recognised Emir riding on horses around the city in the company of his people.

To prevent outbreak of violence, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun deployed the Coordinating DIG for the North West, who also serves as the Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of the Force Criminal Investigation Department, Abubakar Sadiq, to engage in dialogue with the monarchs and the state government.

There was a mutual agreement that no Durbar festival would be held to preserve peace and public safety, and none of the disputed emirs would ride on horse on Sallah day.

During the Eid-el-Fitr celebration last Sunday, some members of a vigilance group, who were said to be part of Sanusi’s entourage, were allegedly attacked and killed.

Sanusi presided over the Eid prayer at the Kofar Mata Eid prayer ground in Kano.

Governor Abba Yusuf and other government officials attended the prayer session.

Source: The Guardian