National Telescope national telescope newspaper
The much-anticipated Sallah Durbar celebration by the 16th Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, has been cast into uncertainty following a ban by the Kano State Police Command.
In a circular, Abbas Sanusi, a senior councillor to Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II, directed all district heads of the Emirate to come along with their village heads, horse riders, and praise singers for the festivities.
This preparation was disrupted when the 15th Emir, Aminu Ado Bayero, announced plans to hold a parallel Durbar celebration, raising fears of potential chaos and violence in the state.
Bayero’s Private Secretary requested special security arrangements from the Commissioner of Police to ensure the safe conduct of the Sallah festivities.
“I’m directed by His Highness, The Emir of Kano, Alh Aminu Ado Bayero, to request special security arrangements for the conduct of Sallah festivities,” the letter read.
Despite the ban, indications emerged that the Sanusi Durbar might still proceed with the support of the state government.
Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Haruna Isa Dederi, expressed concerns over the actions of the State Police Commissioner, accusing him of disobeying the directives of Governor Yusuf.
“The government is concerned about the actions of the State Police Commissioner, who has been accused of disobeying the directives of Governor Yusuf,” Dederi stated.
“Some people are desperately scheming to unjustly penalise the people of Kano for keeping to the tradition of radical politics of voting with their conscience.”
The police ban has sparked tensions in Kano, with the government accusing the police of attempting to destabilise the state.
In response, CP Usaini Gumel explained that the decision to ban all Durbar activities was based on security reports and extensive consultations with relevant stakeholders.
“The decision to ban all Durbar activities was a result of security reports obtained and wide consultations with relevant stakeholders,” Gumel stated.
The controversy over the Durbar celebration highlights the complex interplay of tradition, politics, and security in Kano, as the state government and police navigate the challenges of maintaining order during a culturally significant event
