The Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, has ordered the arrest of Aminu Ado Bayero, the dethroned Emir of Kano, “for creating tension in the state”.
The governor’s directive to arrest Bayero was announced in a statement by his spokesperson, Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa.
“The Governor of Kano State, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has ordered the immediate arrest of the former Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado Bayero, for creating tension in the state.
“The former Emir was smuggled into Kano city last night in an attempt to forcefully return to the palace two days after being deposed by the Governor.
“As the Chief Security Officer of the state, His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Kano State, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has directed the Commissioner of Police to arrest the deposed Emir with immediate effect for disturbing public peace and attempting to destroy the relative peace the state enjoys,” the statement reads.
Bayero, who was removed on Thursday following the repeal of a 2019 emirate law by the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP)-controlled house, arrived in Kano in the early hours of Saturday to a hero’s welcome from his supporters.
The aircraft carrying Bayero reportedly touched down at the Aminu Kano International Airport around 4:30am, where he was greeted by a large crowd chanting verses from the Quran.
Despite his recent dethronement, Bayero’s arrival stirred support among the people. His supporters surrounded him at the airport, reciting a verse from Surah Al-Fatihah, “You (alone) we worship, and you (alone) we ask for help (for each and everything).”
On arrival, Bayero’s convoy made its way towards the palace, which suggested his intent to reclaim his position.
Sanusi had been ousted in 2020 using the 2019 law that was recently repealed.
He was replaced with Aminu Bayero, son of the late Emir Bayero and Emir of Bichi, by former governor Abdullahi Ganduje, Kwankwaso’s successor, due to allegations of insubordination.