Residents of Kano State have expressed growing concerns over the decision of the 15th and 16th Emirs of Kano, Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero and Alhaji Muhammadu Sanusi II, to hold separate Sallah Durbar festivities, raising fears of possible unrest.
Several residents warned that the rivalry between the two monarchs could escalate tensions in the state.
The Kano Emirate has been embroiled in crisis since May 23, 2024, when the state government removed Bayero and reinstated Sanusi, who had been dethroned in 2020 by former Governor Abdullahi Ganduje. The ongoing legal dispute over the rightful Emir has further deepened uncertainty, with conflicting court rulings yet to settle the matter.
Despite the controversy, Governor Kabir Yusuf recently announced plans to unveil the Kano Emirate Council and instructed the traditional rulers to prepare for the Sallah Durbar, a key cultural event during Eid-el-Fitr celebrations.
However, in a counter move, Bayero, through his Private Secretary, Abdullahi Haruna Kwaru, officially notified the state police command of his intention to hold a separate Sallah Durbar. His planned festivities include Hawan Sallah, Hawan Daushe, and Hawan Nasarawa, followed by additional cultural processions.
The development has unsettled many Kano residents, who fear that holding parallel celebrations could lead to clashes.
“The announcement by the 15th Emir, Aminu Ado Bayero, that he will hold Sallah festivities has signaled fears among residents, especially when Governor Yusuf asked the 16th Emir, Muhammadu Sanusi II, to prepare for the event,” said Musa Hassan, a resident.
Another resident, Abdul, urged caution, warning that the city’s fragile peace could be disrupted.
“As I’m talking to you now, this is the main topic of discussion across Kano. If this situation is not handled carefully, it could turn disastrous,” he said.
Many residents have called on the government to suspend the Sallah Durbar entirely to prevent any potential crisis.
Efforts to get comments from the police command’s spokesperson, SP Abdullahi Haruna, were unsuccessful, as he did not respond to calls or messages. Similarly, attempts to reach the state’s Commissioner for Information, Ibrahim Waiya, were unfruitful.
