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VIDEO: Drama As Drone Crashes Near Emir Sanusi During Sallah Speech In Kano
VIDEO: Drama As Drone Crashes Near Emir Sanusi During Sallah Speech In Kano
A moment of unexpected tension unfolded at the Kano Government House on Sunday, June 9, when a drone fell dangerously close to Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II as he delivered a Sallah homage speech. The incident, caught on camera and quickly circulated across social media platforms, sparked a flurry of reactions and fueled speculation amid Kano’s already charged political atmosphere.
Initial clips shared online appeared to show the drone falling directly near the Emir, prompting rumors that he had been targeted — with some suggesting he was stoned. However, eyewitnesses and an official statement by the drone operator have since dispelled misinformation, confirming that the crash was an accident caused by technical failure.
Operator Speaks Out: A Technical Glitch, Not an Attack
The drone operator, Salim Ameenu, took responsibility for the incident and issued a public apology via social media on Monday.
“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,” he wrote.
Ameenu emphasized that there was no foul play involved and deeply regretted the situation. He extended his sincere apologies to the emir and the general public, clarifying that the loss of control was purely technical.
“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,” Ameenu added.
Emir Sanusi’s Calm Response Earns Praise
Despite the commotion, Emir Sanusi II remained calm and composed, continuing his address without showing signs of panic. His dignified response has drawn praise from both traditional institutions and members of the public who commended his stoic leadership during the brief moment of confusion.
This display of calm is particularly symbolic given the current political climate in Kano, where two rival emirs currently lay claim to the throne. Emir Sanusi was originally deposed in 2020 by former governor Abdullahi Ganduje and replaced by Aminu Ado Bayero. However, a recent reinstatement by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has reignited power struggles and divided public sentiment.
Kano’s Dual Emir Crisis Adds to Drama
The drone incident gained additional traction because of its backdrop: a deepening emirate crisis in Kano. Following the state assembly’s repeal of the 2019 Emirate Law that fragmented Kano into five emirates, Governor Yusuf reinstated Sanusi as the 14th Emir of Kano, effectively deposing Bayero. This move has triggered court battles, security deployments, and conflicting royal claims.
The sight of Sanusi delivering a speech at Hawan Nasarawa — a key Sallah tradition — was viewed as a bold affirmation of his authority. In such a politically sensitive environment, the falling drone momentarily sparked fear that it could be linked to sabotage or intimidation.
However, the swift clarification and public apology from the drone operator helped douse the tension.
A Teachable Moment on Public Safety and Tech Use
While the incident appears to have been an innocent technical error, it underscores the need for stricter safety measures during high-security events, especially those involving high-profile figures. Calls are now growing for event organizers and drone operators to follow more rigorous protocols to avoid future mishaps.
The event, though brief in disruption, is likely to be remembered not for the fall of a drone but for the unwavering composure of Emir Sanusi — a leader long known for challenging norms and weathering political storms with elegance.
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