The 16th Emir of Kano, Alhaji Muhammadu Sanusi II, has appealed to the residents of Kano not to allow themselves to be used to destroy the city, the northern region, or the country. Addressing the press at the Kofar Kudu palace, amidst reports of protesters returning to the streets despite a curfew, he condemned the violence that erupted on Thursday, disregarding Governor Abba Yusuf’s calls for peaceful demonstrations.
Sanusi expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives, injuries, and property destruction, describing the incident as a significant setback for Kano State. He urged the protesters to stop and not be misled into further chaos.
“Today is a sad day for the people of Kano as we reflect on yesterday’s events. The violence, which scholars and leaders warned could be hijacked by miscreants, resulted in loss of lives, destruction of properties, and countless injuries,” Sanusi stated.
He emphasized that violence only harms Kano and its innocent residents. “The young people who died are our children, and the properties destroyed belong to the people of Kano. We have set ourselves back. The burnt printing press and vandalized machines represent funds that could have been used for youth empowerment, poverty alleviation, education, healthcare, and other critical needs,” he added.
Sanusi highlighted the destruction of the Digital Centre of Excellence, built by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) for youth digital training. “The minister was due to commission this center next week. Now, we have wasted hundreds of millions of Naira meant for human capital investment,” he lamented.
He pointed out that the North, particularly Kano, bore the brunt of the protest’s consequences. “I urge the people of Kano not to repeat the violence or be deceived into continuing such mayhem. Parents, ward heads, district heads, and imams should advise against this, as it only harms Kano,” he said.
Sanusi prayed for the souls of those who passed away, the recovery of those injured, and the restoration of looted wealth. “Kano has endured difficult times before and emerged stronger. Let us revive the spirit of perseverance and faith in God, who will lift us up,” he encouraged.
He called for cooperation with security agencies and urged people to report suspicious activities. “Let us refuse to buy stolen goods and encourage the return of stolen items to their rightful owners,” he concluded.
