Amid palpable fears that skirmishes might mar the Sallah celebrations due to the lingering emirship tussle, the Kano State police command, on Thursday, banned the traditional Durbar festivities following a clash of orders concerning the event.
The reinstated Emir of Kano, Muhammad Sanusi, and the deposed Emir, Ado Bayero, both requested police security for the post-Eid-el-Kabir Durbar celebrations. However, the police command deemed such arrangements could potentially incite disorder.
The ancient city’s royal crisis has been simmering since May 23, 2024, when the Kano State House of Assembly repealed the Kano Emirate Law 2019 and enacted the Kano Emirate Law 2024, reinstating Sanusi as the 16th Emir of Kano. Governor Abba Yusuf, while signing the new bill into law on May 24, recognized Sanusi’s authority over the emirate and dismissed the rulers of the five newly formed emirates—Kano, Bichi, Karaye, Gaya, and Rano—established by former Governor Umar Ganduje.
Following the prohibition of the Durbar and the directive that the contending emirs should perform their prayers at separate mosques, Bayero prayed at Nassarawa Mosque while Sanusi led prayers at Sheikh Tijjani Mosque in Kofar Mata, Kano. Governor Yusuf and other dignitaries joined Sanusi for the prayers.
In his sermon, Emir Sanusi emphasized the importance of adhering to the teachings of Prophet Muhammad, particularly in aiding the needy during the Eid-al-Adha celebrations. Residents expressed relief at the peaceful nature of the event.
Alhaji Mohammad Abubakar of Tauroni Local Government lauded the serene conduct of the prayers and commended the police and security agencies for maintaining peace. Alhaji Isa Musa from Charanchi called for sustained security beyond the celebrations, while Alhaji Kabiru Danlami from Dorayi urged residents to support security efforts by reporting suspicious activities.
In a related development, the Arewa Youth Advancement Forum extended its felicitations to Emir Bayero, urging him to forgive his adversaries. In a statement, President Nuhu Magaji praised Bayero’s dedication to the progress and development of the state, hailing his leadership as an inspiration. The Forum called on Kano residents to remain united and peaceful, working together for the state’s greater good.
“As the Muslim Ummah celebrates Eid al-Adha, we extend our warmest felicitations to His Highness, Emir Ado Bayero. Despite recent challenges, we stand in solidarity with him as a symbol of peace, progress, and stability. His unwavering dedication to unity and development continues to inspire,” the statement read.