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Eid-El-Fitr: Kano Emirship Tussle Deepens As Emir Bayero Moves To Conduct Separate Durbar

Eid-El-Fitr: Kano Emirship Tussle Deepens As Emir Bayero Moves To Conduct Separate Durbar
  • PublishedMarch 23, 2025

The lingering tussle over the Kano Emirship has taken a new twist as the 15th Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado Bayero, has formally notified the Kano State Police Command of his intention to conduct this year’s Sallah Durbar despite ongoing legal and political disputes.

In a letter signed by his Private Secretary, Abdullahi Haruna Kwaru, Emir Bayero informed the police of plans to hold the traditional Sallah festivities, including Hawan Sallah, Hawan Daushe, and Hawan Nassarawa, on the 2nd and 3rd days of Shawwal 1446 AH.

The letter, which surfaced online, also indicated a cultural event slated for the fourth day.

The move comes just days after the Kano State Governor, Engr. Abba Yusuf, directed Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II, the reinstated 16th Emir of Kano, to begin preparations for the grand Sallah celebration.

This development has further deepened the rivalry between the two monarchs, both laying claim to the revered throne.

Bayero’s notification highlighted that this year’s Durbar holds additional significance as it coincides with his fifth anniversary on the throne.

“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 five years of His Highness on the throne of his forefathers, with the assurance that all activities will be conducted peacefully,” the letter read.

The Kano Emirship crisis, which began with Sanusi’s controversial removal in 2020, took another turn in 2024 when the state government reinstated him.

Bayero, who had replaced Sanusi, continues to assert his legitimacy, resulting in a prolonged legal battle.

A recent Court of Appeal ruling maintained the status quo, leaving the Supreme Court to decide the final outcome.

This year’s Sallah Durbar will be the first attempt at holding the traditional festivities since the crisis began, with previous celebrations suspended over security concerns.

Observers believe the planned Durbar by Bayero is a strategic move to reaffirm his authority despite the ongoing tussle.

As of the time of filing this report, neither the Kano State Government nor Emir Sanusi II has officially responded to Bayero’s move.

The Kano State Police Command is also yet to issue a public statement.