KANO, Nigeria — In an assertive move to restore order and curb the resurgence of thuggery, the Kano Police Command has successfully dislodged local thugs, known as ‘Yan Daba’, from the main emir’s palace in Kano.
The palace, currently occupied by Emir Muhammadu Sanusi, had been guarded by these thugs and local hunters posing as security guards, PR Nigeria reports on Monday, June 24, 2024.
The police action comes amid intelligence reports of an influx of ‘Yan Daba’ and ‘Yan Tauri’ (also known as hunters), mobilised from local government councils to the city.
A top security source, who spoke to PRNigeria on the condition of anonymity, detailed the operation: “We are acting on intelligence regarding the influx of ‘Yan Daba and ‘Yan Tauri, who are being mobilized from various local government councils to the city,” the source stated.
“We are also responding to Governor Abba’s concerns about recent ‘Yan Daba activities.”
The police have now taken control of both the Gidan Rumfa and Nasarawa palaces, deploying personnel to vulnerable areas to maintain law and order.
“The police have cordoned off and secured both palaces, deploying personnel to selected vulnerable areas.
The presence and activities of ‘Yan Daba, who use hard drugs and carry illicit weapons, pose security threats, especially during this tense period,” the source added.
While Emir Sanusi remains in Gidan Rumfa, the deposed Emir Aminu Ado Bayero has sought shelter at the Nasarawa mini palace, also under police protection.
This move aligns with relevant intelligence reports and Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s directives to put an end to thug activities in the metropolis.
Governor Yusuf Abba and his political mentor, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, support the reinstatement of Muhammadu Sanusi II as the Emir of Kano.
Kwankwaso has warned against any attempt to undermine the state government’s authority, emphasising that the people of Kano will resist such attempts.
Recently, a court voided Sanusi’s reinstatement, instructing the state government to halt the implementation of the Kano Emirate Council (Repeal) Law, 2024.
The judge ruled that Sanusi’s reinstatement was null and void due to the government’s disregard for the court’s earlier order.
Some observers believe that the police action is part of federal authorities’ plan to relocate Aminu Ado Bayero back to the main palace.
The police, however, have maintained that their actions are solely aimed at maintaining law and order in the region.
The situation remains tense as the police continue to monitor and secure key areas in Kano, ensuring the safety of its residents and upholding the rule of law amidst the political and social complexities surrounding the emirate.
