On Friday night, a significant fire broke out at the Gidan Rumfa palace, the historic residence of the 16th Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Lamido Sanusi. The incident, which occurred around 11 p.m., has left the palace at Kofar Kudu, a key part of the emirate, seriously damaged.
Eyewitnesses reported that unknown individuals are suspected of setting the fire after forcibly entering the palace. According to sources who spoke with local media, these intruders broke the lock, ignited the fire, and then secured the door behind them, causing substantial damage. Among the destroyed items were the Emir’s throne, air conditioners, and various other valuables.
Dan Buram Kano, the Chief of Staff to Emir Sanusi, confirmed the occurrence in a public statement released on Saturday. He detailed that the fire was confined to the outer court of the palace and emphasized that, fortunately, there were no injuries reported. Despite the destruction of significant artifacts, the overall damage was described as minimal.
Buram Kano assured that the palace is implementing enhanced safety and security measures to protect its premises and inhabitants. Investigations are currently underway to determine the exact cause of the fire and to ensure such incidents do not recur. The palace administration is committed to uncovering the truth behind this act and bolstering security protocols to safeguard the Emir’s residence in the future.