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A seemingly alarming incident at the Kano Government House on Sunday took a surprising turn after initial reports suggested that Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II had been stoned during a public appearance. The moment, which was caught on video and quickly went viral across social media platforms, stirred up speculation, with many questioning whether the emir was deliberately targeted in the politically tense atmosphere of Kano.
However, the true nature of the incident has now come to light. According to eyewitness accounts and a statement from the drone operator involved, the emir was not struck by a stone or any object thrown in malice, but rather by a drone that accidentally lost control mid-flight.
The incident occurred while Emir Sanusi was addressing a gathering at the Government House in Kano during a traditional Sallah homage visit to the state government. As the emir spoke to the crowd, a drone unexpectedly fell from the sky, startling onlookers and sparking a frenzy both at the event and online.
Social media users were quick to speculate, with some alleging that the emir had been attacked by opposition sympathizers, a theory fueled by the ongoing power tussle between Sanusi and Aminu Ado Bayero, the rival claimant to the Kano throne.
However, the drone operator, Salim Ameenu, later took to social media to clarify the situation and issue a formal apology. He explained that the drone had lost battery power mid-flight, causing it to crash near the emir during his speech.
“Yesterday, I unintentionally flew my drone over His Royal Highness during his speech at Hawan Nasarawa. Due to a low battery, I lost control of the drone, and unfortunately, it fell near His Royal Highness,” Ameenu wrote in his statement.
Despite the unexpected disruption, Emir Sanusi displayed remarkable composure. Video footage showed the emir calmly glancing at the fallen drone before continuing his speech without missing a beat, a response that earned admiration from both the operator and members of the public.
“What happened has only strengthened my admiration for HRH’s composure and bravery,” Ameenu added. “His Royal Highness simply glanced at the drone and continued his speech without hesitation, a true display of courage and grace under pressure.”
Observers at the event echoed similar sentiments, praising the emir for his poise and ability to maintain focus amid the confusion.
The incident comes at a time of heightened political tension in Kano State, where a controversial royal dispute has led to a unique and unprecedented situation, the existence of two rival emirs occupying separate palaces.
Sanusi, a former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, was removed from the throne in 2020 by former governor Abdullahi Ganduje, who replaced him with Aminu Ado Bayero. However, the current administration under Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf reinstated Sanusi in May 2024, citing a reversal of what it described as an unjust dethronement.
The decision to reinstate Sanusi has led to intense political and legal battles, with both Sanusi and Bayero claiming legitimacy as the Emir of Kano. The state government has recognized Sanusi’s authority and returned him to the main palace, while Bayero remains in the Nasarawa palace under heavy security.
Given the charged atmosphere, rumors and conspiracy theories around the drone incident quickly gained traction online, with some suggesting that it was an act of sabotage aimed at undermining Sanusi’s authority or intimidating him.
The drone operator’s admission and public apology, however, have gone a long way in calming the storm. By accepting responsibility and explaining the technical error that led to the crash, Ameenu helped quell conspiracy theories and reinforce the fact that the incident was an unfortunate accident, not a deliberate attack.
Authorities have not indicated that any further investigation is needed, and no harm was reported as a result of the drone’s fall.
Meanwhile, public discourse around the event has shifted from speculation to praise for Emir Sanusi’s demeanor and dignity. Many see his reaction as a symbol of leadership, particularly in a period of instability and political contestation.
What could have escalated into another point of conflict in Kano’s ongoing emirship saga turned out to be a case of technological malfunction, and a lesson in grace under pressure. The clarification that it was a drone, not a stone, that fell on Emir Sanusi during his Sallah speech has helped put to rest growing fears of sabotage.
Still, the incident underscores just how sensitive the atmosphere in Kano remains, and how even innocent mistakes can be misinterpreted in such a politically charged environment. As the state awaits resolution in the ongoing tussle between its two traditional rulers, moments like this highlight the importance of transparency, calm leadership, and clear communication.
