Emir Sanusi II Cancels Sallah Durbar Following Police Ban
The 16th Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, has responded to the recent ban on the Sallah Durbar imposed by the Kano State Police Command, stating that the decision was made in the interest of long-term peace and development in the state.
In light of the ban, Emir Sanusi II announced that the traditional Sallah Durbar, which marks the conclusion of Ramadan, is not a life-or-death matter but a cultural symbol with roots dating back to the 15th century.
The Emir made these comments while hosting Islamic scholars and prominent guests at an Iftar dinner in his palace on Saturday evening.
Describing peace as the foundation of progress and development, the Emir stated his commitment to withdrawing all planned activities for the Durbar, which has been recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage.
The State Commissioner of Police, CP Adamu Bakori, had earlier cited security concerns, revealed through intelligence reports, as the reason for the ban on the Durbar festivities.
Emir Sanusi II, however, emphasized that the Sallah Durbar is not a matter of life and death, stressing that the safety and well-being of Kano’s citizens are far more important to him. He called on the people of Kano to remain peaceful, law-abiding, and cooperative with security agencies to ensure order during and after the Sallah celebrations.
In his remarks, Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, represented by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG) Alhaji Ibrahim Umar Faruq at the Iftar, commended the Emir for his understanding and compassion. The SSG recalled his own experience with the Emir during his time as a lecturer at ABU Zaria in the 1980s, where Emir Sanusi had been a mentor and supporter.
The SSG also expressed gratitude to the Emir for prioritizing the safety of Kano’s people by agreeing to cancel the Durbar celebration.
Similarly, the Chief Imam of the National Mosque, Professor Shehu Galadanci, praised Emir Sanusi II for his wisdom and leadership. Professor Galadanci echoed the Emir’s sentiment, underscoring that the safety of Kano’s citizens should take precedence over the Durbar festivities and lauded the Emir for fostering peaceful coexistence within the Emirate.
It is also worth noting that Emir Sanusi II’s rival for the Kano throne, the 15th Emir Aminu Ado Bayero, had also recently canceled his planned Durbar activities, citing the importance of maintaining peace and order in the region.
