Tensions are rising in Kano State as two rival emirs, Alhaji Muhammadu Sanusi II and Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero, have both indicated their plans to hold separate Sallah durbar celebrations in 2025.
This development has added a new twist to the ongoing emirship tussle in the state, which began in 2020 when Sanusi was removed and Bayero was installed. However, in 2024, the Kano State government reversed the decision, reinstating Sanusi, a move that Bayero rejected. Since then, Bayero has been operating from the Nasarawa mini-palace, where he continues to hold court.
Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf recently directed traditional rulers to prepare for the Sallah durbar, a major cultural event in Kano. Following this, Emir Bayero formally notified the Kano State Police Command of his intention to hold the celebrations.
His letter, signed by his Private Secretary, Abdullahi Haruna Kwaru, outlined the planned events, including the Hawan Sallah, Hawan Daushe, and Hawan Nassarawa processions, which will take place at the end of March 2025.
The letter also noted that this year’s celebrations coincide with the fifth anniversary of Bayero’s ascension to the throne. It assured that all activities would be conducted peacefully and in line with security measures.
“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 coincided with five years of His Highness on the throne of his forefathers, with the assurance that all activities will be conducted peacefully,” the letter stated.
So far, neither the Kano State government nor Emir Sanusi II has reacted to the development. The police command has also remained silent on the matter. However, with only a few days left before the Sallah festival, many are eager to see how the situation unfolds.
Meanwhile, residents of Kano have expressed their concerns about the potential consequences of the separate celebrations. Speaking to DAILY TRUST, some fear that the ongoing dispute could lead to security issues.
Malam Haladu Bello, a 78-year-old resident, described the situation as unfortunate. He urged leaders to prioritize the safety of innocent people rather than personal interests.
“I have witnessed several durbars with all the positive and negative things these durbars come with, but what we perceive today is something entirely different. It is unfortunate that for selfish reasons some of our leaders have decided to look the other way round despite the fact that there are several innocent lives involved here. Yes, we have all missed the Sallah durbar, but that doesn’t mean we are not concerned about losing someone’s life. I am pleading with whosoever is concerned to temper mercy with justice and address this simple and yet so difficult matter. If not for anything, they should do it because they are all humans,” he said.
Another resident, 30-year-old Alhaji Usman Shehu, noted that the emirship dispute is a family matter and should be handled accordingly. He expressed frustration that the situation is putting the lives of ordinary people at risk.
“For selfish reasons, people have been denied the liberty to enjoy even their cultural happenings. We are always in a constant fear of what may happen the next moment. We do not deserve this at all. Let us rest in peace and not when we are no more,” he said.
