Kano Residents Flee in Fear as Armed Hoodlums Camp at Emir’s Palace

Concerned residents of Rano town in Kano State have raised the alarm over the presence of armed hoodlums at the headquarters of the Emirate since Sunday.

In a letter addressed to the state Police Commissioner, a copy of which was made available to newsmen on Tuesday, it was revealed that the hoodlums have been camped at the Emir’s palace by unidentified persons.

The letter noted that the motives of the armed youths remain unknown, and their presence is generally considered a threat to the security of lives and property.

The letter read in part: “On the evening of Sunday, July 7, 2024, Rano town, the headquarters of our beloved Rano Emirate, was invaded by armed hoodlums believed to be sponsored by unidentified persons. These hoodlums have camped at both the Main Palace and the historic Tsohon Gari Palace.

“Although the motives of these armed individuals remain unknown, their presence is considered a significant threat to the security of lives and property and a disrespect to the ban imposed by the Commissioner of Police on June 20, 2024. This ban prohibited all non-state security actors, including vigilantes and hunters, from providing security services in the state.

According to the letter, residents of the Rano Emirate are peaceful people known for conducting their businesses without creating trouble.

“Over the years, the Rano Emirate has experienced uninterrupted peace, and security agencies can testify to this,” the letter continued.

“The recent emirate tussle in Kano State has, however, brought about a lot of tension and discontent among the residents, as many felt that their opinions as stakeholders were not respected. This is connected to the fact that public hearings were not conducted throughout the state to establish whether there was a need to dissolve the four additional emirates (Rano, Gaya, Karaye, and Bichi) upgraded by the administration of Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje.

“Despite this development, the residents of Rano Emirate have controlled their emotions and acted within the confines of the law, engaging only in legitimate peaceful demonstrations.

“The people exercised restraint because they believe in the judiciary, as the emirates case is before a competent court of justice. The good people of Rano Emirate have opted to respect the court’s order issued by the Federal High Court Kano on the case, which we believe is a constitutional duty of all citizens.”