The 16th Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, on Tuesday, opted for a vehicle convoy instead of the traditional Sallah Durbar horse procession to pay homage to Governor Abba Yusuf at the Kano Government House.
The decision follows the ban on all Sallah Durbar activities imposed by the Kano State Police Command, citing security concerns. Emir Sanusi also altered his route from the Emir’s Palace to the Government House to avoid potential security breaches.
Tension Over Rival Emirs’ Durbar Plans
In the lead-up to the Eid-el-Fitr celebrations, anxiety gripped Kano residents over the rivalry between two emirs—Sanusi and the 15th Emir of Kano, Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero—both of whom had initially planned to hold the Sallah Durbar.
Emir Bayero had formally written to the police command, notifying it of his intention to hold the Sallah Durbar procession. However, Governor Yusuf had also directed Emir Sanusi and the Kano Emirate Council to prepare for the event.
Amid fears of a security crisis, Bayero announced the cancellation of all Durbar activities, and Commissioner of Police Adamu Bakori reinforced the decision by officially banning the celebrations.
Emir Sanusi Supports Ban, Calls for Calm
Emir Sanusi welcomed the ban and urged residents to remain calm. On Tuesday, he abandoned the horse procession and instead arrived at the Government House in a vehicle convoy to fulfill the traditional Sallah homage to the governor.
During his address, Sanusi commended Governor Yusuf for prioritizing key sectors, including education, healthcare, agriculture, and security.
“We’ve come to pay Sallah homage and thank you for your outstanding work, especially in education and agriculture, where you’ve provided subsidized modern farming implements,” Sanusi stated.
He also praised the Kano State House of Assembly for their actions in restoring stability to the Emirate Council, and urged local government chairmen to align with the governor’s development initiatives.
Governor Yusuf Reaffirms Commitment to Peace
Governor Abba Yusuf expressed gratitude for the Emir’s visit and commended his role in promoting peace and unity in Kano State.
“It is a tradition that on a day like this, the Emir and his entourage visit us for Sallah homage. We are thankful to God for allowing us to complete our Ramadan fast in peace,” the governor said.
He praised the Emir’s efforts to unite Islamic sects in the state and emphasized his administration’s commitment to sustaining peace.
“Kano remains one of the most peaceful states in Nigeria, and we will continue working to maintain that stability,” Yusuf added.
He also reaffirmed his vision to transform Kano into a megacity, highlighting efforts to modernize infrastructure and improve governance.
The ban on the Sallah Durbar marks a significant shift in Kano’s cultural traditions, reflecting the ongoing power struggle within the Emirate Council and the state government’s heightened focus on security.