Kano CSOs Slam Police Over Emir Sanusi II Invitation, Call It an “Insult”, Demand Apology
A coalition of civil society organizations in Kano State has warned the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), accusing it of political bias and cultural insensitivity in the ongoing tussle over the Kano Emirate.
In a press statement signed by Nura Idris, Chairman of the Coalition, and released on Tuesday, the Coalition of Concerned Kano Civil Society Groups (CCKCSG) called for an immediate end to the politicization of the police and urged respect for Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II.
The group condemned the police’s decision to summon Emir Sanusi to Abuja following his participation in the Eid al-Fitr durbar, describing the move as political interference aimed at undermining the authority of the Emirate.
“The decision to summon the Emir to the national headquarters in Abuja, rather than engaging him respectfully within Kano, smacks of political interference and a deliberate attempt to diminish the authority of the Emirate,” the coalition stated.
Although the summons was later withdrawn after public backlash, the CCKCSG said the incident reflects a growing use of security agencies in political conflicts, which they argue undermines public confidence and state stability.
“The Nigeria Police Force, as a federal institution, is constitutionally mandated to uphold law and order without bias,” the group said. “However, the handling of the Kano Emirate tussle… suggests a troubling alignment with political interests.”
The coalition also criticized the police for referring to Emir Sanusi as “Alhaji Sanusi” in official communication, calling it a deliberate insult to the traditional institution.
“This is not a mere oversight; it is a deliberate act of disrespect that strikes at the heart of our cultural identity,” said the statement, calling on the NPF to “issue an immediate public apology” and to “address the Emir by his proper title, Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II, in all future engagements.”
The group objected to the deployment of military personnel in what they consider a state-level issue, arguing that such involvement could escalate tensions and damage public trust in national institutions.
“The police must not allow themselves to be weaponized in the ongoing emirship dispute between Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II and Aminu Ado Bayero,” the coalition emphasized. “This conflict requires dialogue, cultural sensitivity, and legal resolution—not heavy-handed enforcement.”
The group urged the Inspector General of Police and other authorities to preserve the neutrality of the police and treat traditional leaders with the respect associated with their roles.
“Let us work together to restore trust in our institutions, uphold the dignity of the Kano Emirate, and ensure a peaceful resolution to this crisis,” the statement added.
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