Olusegun Ariyo
The 16th Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, has endorsed the ban on the annual Sallah Durbar, citing the decision as crucial for maintaining peace and security across Kano State.
During an Iftar dinner held at his palace on Saturday, Emir Sanusi highlighted that the colourful Durbar festival—an age-old cultural tradition recognized by UNESCO as an intangible heritage of humanity—is secondary to the safety and well-being of Kano residents.
The Emir, while addressing guests at the event, stressed that peace remains the foundation for societal progress and development. In alignment with the security advisory, he agreed to suspend all planned activities associated with the Durbar celebration.
“The Eid El Fitr Durbar is not a matter of life and death. The lives and safety of Kano citizens are more important to me,” he remarked, urging residents to remain peaceful and cooperate with security agencies during and after the Sallah festivities.
The decision to cancel the Durbar followed a joint security announcement by the Kano State Commissioner of Police, Adamu Bakori, who cited intelligence reports indicating an impending security threat.
Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, represented by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Ibrahim Faruq, commended Emir Sanusi’s concern for public safety. Faruq also recalled the Emir’s kindness and mentorship during his time as a lecturer at Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) in the early 1980s.
Expressing gratitude for the Emir’s decision, the SSG said, “The Emir’s decision to cancel the Durbar shows his deep concern for the lives of Kano citizens.”
Echoing similar sentiments, the Chief Imam of the National Mosque, Professor Shehu Galadanci, lauded the Emir’s leadership and wisdom in prioritizing the safety of his people over tradition. Galadanci noted that the Emir’s actions promote peaceful coexistence within the state.
