Obi Supports Police U-Turn on Emir Sanusi’s Invitation Amid Public Outcry

Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has strongly criticised the Nigeria Police Force for summoning the Emir of Kano, Alhaji Muhammadu Sanusi, over a reported murder linked to Durbar festivities, calling the invitation “needless and provocative.”

Obi stated that such a move risked inflaming tensions in an already volatile Kano, especially as the monarch was accused after a traditional Eid procession—despite warnings from the police to cancel the Durbar.

The invitation sparked widespread backlash, forcing the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to withdraw the summons amid growing public outrage. Critics argue that the initial move reeked of political witch-hunting and disrespect for cultural institutions.

Though the IGP has now directed the Kano Police Command to obtain Sanusi’s statement in a less confrontational manner, many see the incident as part of a wider trend of state intimidation targeting traditional leaders and political dissenters.