GUNMEN suspected to be robbers Tuesday evening attacked the palace of the Emir of Minna, in Niger State, reports Premium Times.
The Secretary to the Mina Emirate Council, Garba Kuta, said the robbers stole an undisclosed amount of money meant for members of the council from the cashier of the council, Ibrahim Sani.
Kuta told Premium Times that he was with the emir when they heard gunshots outside the palace.
“We thought it was children that were playing. Even the emir did not think the shots were fired by armed robbers until I went out and heard shouting,” he said.
He said the robbers gained access through the first and second gates of the palace but could not enter the main palace.
According to Mr Kuta, two palace guards were shot – one in the leg and the other on the chest. He said they are being treated at a nearby hospital.
Mr Kuta said the police have visited the palace and promised to investigate the incident.
However, the state police command has yet to release a statement about the robbery as of the time of filing this report late on Tuesday.
Meanwhile, the Niger State governor, Mohammed Bago, has condemned the robbery attack.
In a statement by his chief press secretary, Bologi Ibrahim, the governor described the incident as unfortunate and the height of disregard for traditional institutions.
He said his administration will not allow criminals inflict pains and sorrow on innocent residents of the state.
“This is highly unfortunate to have this kind of situation not just in the state capital but at the the emir’s palace.
“My administration will not condone this act. I charge the security agencies to investigate and fish out the criminals with a view to prosecuting them,” he said.
