The Nigeria Police Force has rescinded its invitation to the 16th Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, regarding the controversial Sallah incident that occurred in Kano last week, police authorities confirmed yesterday.
The withdrawal comes amid mounting pressure from traditional rulers, political leaders, and civil society groups who had criticized the initial summons as politically motivated and potentially destabilizing for the ancient city.
Commissioner of Police, Kano State Command, CP Hussaini Gumel, confirmed the development while addressing journalists at the Police Headquarters in Bompai, stating that the decision was reached after “careful review of the security situation and consultations with relevant stakeholders.”
“The Police Command has, after thorough consideration, withdrawn the invitation previously extended to His Highness. We believe this decision serves the greater interest of peace and stability in Kano metropolis,” CP Gumel stated.
The controversy began during last week’s Eid-el-Kabir celebrations when the former Central Bank Governor, who was reinstated as Emir by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf earlier this year, allegedly violated security protocols by proceeding with the traditional Durbar despite advisory against it due to security concerns.
Security sources had reported that Sanusi’s procession created traffic gridlock and led to isolated altercations between his supporters and those loyal to the deposed Emir Aminu Ado Bayero, who continues to enjoy support from certain quarters despite the state government’s decision to reinstate Sanusi.
Professor Ibrahim Muazzam, a political scientist at Bayero University Kano, told our correspondent that the development reflects the complex interplay of traditional institutions and modern governance structures.
“The emirship tussle in Kano represents more than just a leadership dispute; it embodies the ongoing negotiation between traditional authority and constitutional governance in modern Nigeria,” Professor Muazzam explained.
The police spokesperson clarified that despite withdrawing the invitation, law enforcement agencies would continue monitoring the situation closely and would not hesitate to take appropriate action against any individual or group threatening public order.
Sanusi’s legal representative, Barrister Mahmoud Magaji (SAN), while acknowledging the withdrawal, maintained that his client had committed no offense and was merely fulfilling his traditional obligations during the Sallah celebrations.
“The Emir has always been a law-abiding citizen whose actions are guided by the preservation of our cultural heritage. We welcome the police decision to withdraw what was clearly an unnecessary invitation,” Magaji stated.
Palace sources revealed that the Emir has resumed his royal duties and recently received several community leaders at his palace, where he emphasized the need for unity and peaceful coexistence among residents regardless of political affiliation.
Meanwhile, the Kano State Government has reiterated its support for the reinstated Emir, with the Commissioner for Local Government Affairs, Dr. Abdullahi Abbas, stating that “the government remains committed to preserving the dignity and authority of our traditional institutions while ensuring they operate within the ambits of the law.”
Security analysts have advised all parties to exe restraint and utilize established legal channels to address any grievances, noting that Kano’s strategic position in northern Nigeria makes its stability crucial for the entire region.
