BY: TIJJANI SARKI
The invitation extended to the Emir of Kano, Khalifa Muhammadu Sanusi II, by the Police Headquarters in Abuja for an investigative meeting raises several critical concerns that warrant immediate attention.
This follows the tragic incident of attack on the Emir on Sallah day, March 30, 2025, which led to the death of one person and many others injured. While it is important to recognize the diligent efforts of the Kano State Police Command, which is actively investigating the incident, the Abuja invitation raises questions about whether such interference might inadvertently disrupt and undermine local investigative efforts.
The Ongoing Investigation by the Kano State Police Command
On April 2, 2025, Kano’s Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, established an 8-member Special Investigation Panel (SIP) to probe the assassination attempt on Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II after the Eid prayers. The panel’s mandate includes investigating the root causes of this tragic event and addressing any alleged violations of the Kano State Police Command’s ban on Durbar during the Sallah celebrations.
The Kano Police have made significant inroads in their investigation, arresting two individuals Usman Sagiru, aged 20, and Nasir Idris, aged 35 in connection with the
crime. While the final reports are being awaited, it is evident that the investigation is progressing smoothly within the local jurisdiction, with the Kano Police having the necessary resources, context, and expertise to handle the case effectively.
The Invitation from Police Headquarters: A Cause for Concern
It is, therefore, troubling that the Police Headquarters in Abuja has issued an invitation to the Emir of Kano to attend an investigative meeting scheduled for April 8, 2025. The invitation, dated April 4, 2025, requests the Emir’s presence at the Force Intelligence Department (FID) in Abuja, raising several issues regarding the necessity and purpose of such an interference.
Potential Disruption to Local Investigations
A primary concern surrounding this invitation is its potential to undermine the ongoing efforts of the Kano State Police Command. The Special Investigation Panel was specifically created to address the matter within the state, where the incident occurred and where the local authorities possess intimate knowledge of the region and its dynamics. The involvement of the Police high command, Abuja could lead to confusion, duplication of efforts, or delays in the investigation’s progress.
Further interference, without clear coordination, risks causing conflicting investigations, which could not only lead to inefficiencies but also undermine the clarity of the process.
Lack of Clear Justification for the Invitation
The invitation letter from the Police Headquarters in Abuja describes the meeting as an “investigation meeting” but fails to specify the Emir’s exact role or the nature of his involvement. The letter asks the Emir to travel to Abuja, an impractical distance from Kano on April 8, 2025. Given that the incident occurred within the Emir’s jurisdiction, and considering the local authorities are already managing the case, it remains unclear why the FHQ feels it is necessary to summon the Emir for an in-person meeting.
To further complicate matters, the Kano Police Command has already invited the Shamakin Kano, Alhaji Wada Isyaku the senior aide responsible for managing palace affairs for questioning about his
alleged defiance of the Durbar ban. The outcome of this invitation is also being awaited, adding to the confusion surrounding the investigation and raising concerns about coordination between the Kano Police and the Police Force Headquarters.
A Call for Clear Communication and Coordination
Given the restrictions already imposed by the Kano State Police Command such as the Durbar ban, announced by CP Bakori on March 28, 2025—it is critical that both local and federal law enforcement agencies collaborate effectively. Clear communication and coordinated efforts between all stakeholders are vital to resolving this matter swiftly and efficiently.
The Investigation Meeting: A Potential Disrespect to the Emirate and Traditional Institution
The invitation that was extended to the Emir of Kano for an investigative meeting seems unnecessary and, perhaps, demeaning to the revered Emir and the traditional institutions. This move risks complicating and compounding the investigation further, potentially providing an opportunity for individuals with ulterior motives to exploit the situation and sow discord within the state. A more effective approach would be for the Police Headquarters to respect the processes already in place within Kano, offering support where needed without overstepping the local jurisdiction’s authority.
Conclusion:
The tragic death of Surajo Rabiu and the injuries sustained by Aminu Suleman demand swift justice, but it is essential that the investigation be conducted with clarity, transparency, and respect for local authority. The Kano State Police Command has already made significant progress in addressing the matter and deserves the space to complete its work without unnecessary distractions. External interference from the Police Headquarters in Abuja risks disrupting this process, and it is crucial for all relevant authorities to ensure clear communication, coordination, and respect for the integrity of the local investigation.
Tijjani Sarki
Public Policy Advocate and Analyst
Vice President, Human Rights Watch and
Youth Empowerment Foundation
April 5, 2025