Tension Mounts in Kano as Rival Emirs Announce Sallah Durbar Processions

Israel Adeleke

OPEN TELEVISION NAIJA OTN News reports that tensions are rising in Kano as rival emirs, Lamido Sanusi and Aminu Ado Bayero, prepare for separate Sallah durbar processions, a traditional event marking the end of Ramadan. 

OTN News further reports that the two emirs, both laying claim to the Kano throne, have been operating from different palaces since last May when the state government removed Ado Bayero and reinstated his predecessor, Sanusi, under a new emirate law.  

OTN News observes that the situation has created uncertainty in the ancient city, with both factions insisting on their legitimacy. 

OTN News further observes that Sanusi continues to hold court at the main Kano emir’s palace, while Ado Bayero remains at the mini palace in the Government Reservation Area (GRA) of Nassarawa.  

OTN News recalls that on Tuesday, Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf, directed emirate councils to commence preparations for the Sallah durbar, emphasizing that his administration would not allow any opposition to deprive citizens of this cherished tradition.  

The governor speaking via his spokesperson, Sanusi Bature, said in a statement that his administration will not relent and will not allow any adversaries to deprive citizens of this cherished right (durbar procession). 

He assured the public that all security agencies in the state will be engaged to provide adequate protection for the people during the celebration.  

OTN News further observes that following the governor’s directive, Ado Bayero formally notified security agencies of his intention to conduct a durbar, highlighting that the event coincides with his fifth anniversary as Emir of Kano.  

He said, “The purpose of this letter is to formally notify the security agencies in Kano State, particularly the Police Force, that this year’s Sallah events coincide with the fifth anniversary of His Highness on the throne of his forefathers, with assurance that all activities will be conducted peacefully."