Sallah violence ; Why Police Quietly Withdrew Emir Sanusi’s Abuja Invitation

Sallah violence ; Why Police Quietly Withdrew Emir Sanusi’s Abuja Invitation

The Nigeria Police Force has officially withdrawn its earlier invitation to the 16th Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, regarding the violent clash that disrupted the Sallah celebrations in Kano on March 30, 2025.

Sanusi had initially been summoned to Abuja to explain his role in a controversial post-Eid horse-riding procession. The procession, which defied a prior security consensus, was said to have contributed to a breakdown of peace, leading to clashes that claimed a life and left several others injured.

The police had alleged that the procession violated agreed terms aimed at preventing conflict between the two rival emirs in Kano — Alhaji Ado Bayero and Alhaji Lamido Sanusi — both of whom had plans to host separate Durbar festivals.

However, on Sunday, the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, announced a significant reversal: the invitation was being retracted. He explained that the decision followed consultations with key stakeholders and reflected the Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun’s desire to avoid actions that could be seen as politically motivated.

Rather than require Sanusi to travel to Abuja, the police will now send operatives from the Force Intelligence Department to Kano to obtain his statement quietly and respectfully.

“The aim is to ensure professionalism and neutrality in handling the investigation,” Adejobi stated, adding that “the withdrawal reflects the IGP’s sensitivity to the political and cultural tensions surrounding the matter.”

Earlier intelligence had revealed plans by both emirs to stage rival Durbar festivals, a move the police feared could spark unrest. To forestall conflict, the IGP deployed DIG Abubakar Sadiq to mediate between the parties and secure a temporary peace deal, which included a mutual agreement to cancel the Durbar rides.

However, despite arriving at the Eid grounds by car, Emir Sanusi reportedly mounted a horse after prayers and led a short procession, flanked by local vigilantes. The act was seen by some as provocative, especially in light of the fragile peace agreement.

This sparked an angry reaction from some youth in the area, culminating in the death of a young man named Usman Sagiru and injuries to several others.

The police say they are committed to investigating the incident thoroughly and have already made some arrests in connection with the violence. They also strongly condemned what they described as a breach of the peace agreement.

This unfolding story continues to spotlight the deep-rooted rivalry in Kano’s traditional leadership and the delicate balance of tradition, politics, and public order.