The Nigeria Police Force has summoned the 16th Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, for questioning following the fatal stabbing of one of his palace guards during the recent Eid celebrations.
The police asked Sanusi to report to the Force Intelligence Department headquarters in Abuja on April 8.
The incident, which occurred on March 30 at the Kofar Mata Eid Ground, sent shockwaves across the ancient city as violence marred what was supposed to be a solemn religious occasion.
A vigilante attached to the Emir’s security detail was stabbed to death, while several others sustained injuries in the bloody attack.
Despite a statewide suspension of the traditional Sallah durbar, particularly the symbolic horse-riding procession, over alleged security concerns, the Emir proceeded to the prayer ground in a low-key manner, reportedly without the equestrian display.
Reports gathered suggested that the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, initially ordered the immediate arrest of Emir Sanusi.
However, the Kano State Commissioner of Police was said to have pushed back, arguing that the monarch neither violated the durbar ban nor flouted any known security directive.
In a move that signals distrust in the state command, the IGP reportedly ordered the Force Intelligence Department (FID) in Abuja to take over the case file and directly invite the monarch for interrogation.
A police invitation letter signed by Commissioner of Police Olajide Ibitoye, directs Emir Sanusi to appear before the FID on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, by 10:00am.
The letter reads in part: “I have the directives of the Inspector General of Police, through the Deputy Inspector General of Police, Force Intelligence Department, to invite you for an investigative meeting regarding an incident that occurred during the Sallah celebration within your domain.
“You are hereby invited to the Force Intelligence Department, opposite Police Force Headquarters, Area 11, Abuja.”
Sources added that the Emir has not formally acknowledged receipt of the letter.
Meanwhile, police authorities have confirmed the arrest of a 20-year-old suspect linked to the stabbing.
The attacker allegedly launched the deadly assault while security operatives were escorting Emir Sanusi after Eid prayers.
One other guard was seriously injured and is currently receiving treatment at Murtala Muhammad Hospital in Kano.
The police also invited a high-ranking palace official, Wada Isyaku, the Shamakin Kano, for questioning in connection with the ongoing investigation.
