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 symphathy visit to the community upon his return from Lesser Hajj.
The Kano state government on Monday confirmed three persons 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 speedy recovery of those injured during the incident.
“We must pray for the souls of the deceased and for strength of their families to bear the loss. May this be the last of such tragic incident in our community,” he said.
He admonished members of the community to exercise restraint and allow law to take its course, emphasising that violence only resulted to more sufferings.
“When violence erupts, it is our own 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, where members of the community 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 the 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 set up a committee including the representatives of the state government, university management, security agencies and community leaders, to address the issue.
“We will engage the governor, BUK authorities, and security officials to ensure justice is done. However, if you have sold your land and received compensation, you must accept the reality,” he said.
Sanusi enjoned 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 happen again. Justice will prevail, and Allah is always with those who stand for the truth.”
