The Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, has called for peace and patience among residents of Rimin Zakara town following the recent unrest over a land dispute between the community and Bayero University Kano (BUK).
Sanusi made the call on Tuesday during a sympathy visit to the community upon his return from Lesser Hajj.
The Kano state government on Monday confirmed three persons were killed in a clash between personnel of a demolition team and members of the Rimin Zakara community in Ungogo Local Government Area of the state.
The Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Ibrahim Wayya, announced that the state government would set up a committee to investigate the incident.
Sanusi expressed his condolences to the bereaved families and prayed for the speedy recovery of those injured during the incident.
“We must pray for the souls of the deceased and for the strength of their families to bear the loss. May this be the last of such tragic incidents in our community,” he said.
He admonished members of the community to exercise restraint and allow the law to take its course, emphasising that violence only resulted in more suffering.
“When violence erupts, it is our people who suffer. No amount of destruction or bloodshed will resolve the issue. We must work together to protect lives and property,” he said.
While acknowledging the complexity of the land dispute, Sanusi said that the issue had lingered for many years, when community members and the university claimed legal ownership of the land in dispute.
He stressed the need for evidence-based resolution through the court and a collective dialogue with the relevant authorities.
“This matter should not be complicated. If the case is in court, it must be resolved with clear evidence. We must sit down with all the concerned parties to find a lasting solution to the problem,” Sanusi said.
The royal father announced plans to establish a committee to address the issue, including representatives of the state government, university management, security agencies, and community leaders.
“We will engage the governor, BUK authorities, and security officials to ensure justice. However, if you have sold your land and received compensation, you must accept the reality,” he said.
Sanusi enjoined the people to prioritise peace and unity, adding that “no land or property is worth the loss of human life. The life of one individual is more valuable than the entire world.
“We must work together to ensure such tragedy never happens again. Justice will prevail, and Allah is always with those who stand for the truth.” (NAN)
