KANO, Nigeria — A drone crash involving Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II during a Sallah homage at the Kano State Government House has drawn widespread attention after a video of the incident circulated on social media, sparking initial claims that the emir was attacked.
The episode occurred on Sunday, June 8, 2025, while the emir was addressing an audience during the traditional Hawan Nasarawa—a Sallah visit to the governor.
In the video, a drone is seen descending abruptly and striking the emir, momentarily interrupting his speech.
The footage triggered immediate speculation online, with some alleging that the emir had been stoned in an orchestrated attack.
However, further accounts from eyewitnesses and the drone operator have since clarified the incident.
In a statement released on Monday, June 9, 2025, Salim Ameenu, the drone operator responsible, explained that the crash was accidental and resulted from technical failure due to low battery levels.
“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 on social media.
“What happened has only strengthened my admiration for HRH’s composure and bravery. His Royal Highness simply glanced at the drone and continued his speech without hesitation — a true display of courage and grace under pressure.”
There were no reported injuries, and the emir continued his address without disruption, drawing commendation from onlookers for his calm demeanour.
The incident comes amid heightened political and traditional tensions in Kano, where the reinstatement of Sanusi by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has led to a disputed emirship in the state.
Sanusi, who was removed by former governor Abdullahi Ganduje in 2020 and replaced by Aminu Ado Bayero, was reinstated in May, prompting a legal and administrative standoff between the two claimants.
At present, both Sanusi and Bayero occupy separate palaces, with the former residing in the main palace and the latter in the Nasarawa palace.
The emirship dispute remains before the courts.
