Sanusi Calls Emir’s Palace Seal-Off ‘A Distraction’ – Warns Against Political Manipulations

Last week, police and DSS officials blocked the entrance to the Gidan Rumfa Palace, restricting free movement in and out. This action was reportedly taken to prevent potential unrest in Bichi town, where Sanusi was scheduled to install a district head. While the Nigeria Police Force has yet to provide an official statement, sources suggest that the move was prompted by intelligence indicating that some residents of Bichi planned to disrupt the installation ceremony.

Speaking on Wednesday when a delegation from Bichi visited to thank him for the appointment and pledge their loyalty, Sanusi described the sealing of the palace as a mere distraction that would not hinder the planned event. He assured the delegation that a new date would be set for the installation, which would proceed peacefully.

Sanusi urged the people of Bichi to remain calm and peaceful, emphasizing that another date would be arranged. He stated, “This incident is only a distraction, and we still don’t know why it happened. Those involved have not explained their actions. However, this will not stop anything. I assure you that a new date will be set, and your District Head will be delivered to you peacefully.”

He added, “I encourage you to remain peaceful and prayerful. Peace and prayer will guide us through any challenges. If you see someone trying to disturb the peace, do not become involved.”

Sanusi also reflected on his personal connection to Bichi, noting that it had been a second home to him during his childhood. “I know Bichi better than any place, perhaps some of you may know this if you had the chance to interact with my late uncle, Wambai Abubakar,” he shared. “As a child, I spent my long vacations in Azare for a month, in Bichi for twenty days, and in Dawakin Tofa for ten days. This was my routine every year.”

He continued, “It’s clear that any town you visit for twenty days every year is like another home. I know the people of Bichi, and they are peaceful and educated, with a strong religious foundation. Given the reverence the people of Bichi have for the Khalifa and Wambai Abubakar, there’s no way they would turn their backs on his son as the Wambai.”