There are strong indications that the hitherto simmering tension in Kano State over the emirship tussle may once get heated as the lingering tussle over the emirship takes a new turn ahead of the 2025 Eid-el-Fitr celebrations.
The two contenders to the emirship seat – Alhaji Muhammadu Sanusi II, the 16th Emir of Kano, and Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero, the 15th Emir of Kano, have both signalled their intention to lead the traditional Sallah durbar, setting the stage for a potential showdown.
Following this development, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf last week directed traditional rulers to begin preparations for the annual durbar festivities.
In response, Emir Bayero formally notified the Kano State Police Command of his plan to conduct the historic event, emphasising its significance as it marks his fifth anniversary on the throne.
In a letter signed by his Private Secretary, Abdullahi Haruna Kwaru, Bayero detailed the schedule of events, which are set to begin in late March 2025.
The celebrations will feature the famous Hawan Sallah, Hawan Daushe, and Hawan Nassarawa processions, followed by a grand cultural display.
Additionally, the letter assured authorities that all activities would be conducted peacefully and in line with security protocols.
Meanwhile, the rivalry between Sanusi and Bayero dates back to 2020, when Sanusi II was removed from the throne through legislative proceedings, paving the way for Bayero’s ascension.
However, in 2024, another amendment to the Kano Emirates Law led to Sanusi’s reinstatement by the state government.
Incidentally, Bayero has since refused to step down but relocated to the Nasarawa mini-palace, where he continues to hold court.
As the date for the Sallah durbar draws closer, the Kano State Government and Sanusi II have yet to officially respond to Bayero’s letter.
The police command has also remained silent, leaving many residents uncertain about how the situation will unfold.
Amid this uncertainty, residents have begun expressing their concerns over the potential consequences of parallel durbar celebrations.
Hajiya Amina Musa, a resident of Kofar Mata, voiced her apprehension, stating that the rivalry between the two emirs could disrupt the peace in Kano.
“This should not be happening at a time when people are struggling with economic hardship. We just want to celebrate Sallah with our families without fear of violence,” she said.
Similarly, Musa Abdullahi, a civil servant, expressed frustration over the political undertones of the emirship dispute.
“The durbar is part of our history, but the way things are going, it is turning into a contest of power rather than a cultural celebration,” he observed.
Another resident, Maryam Sani, a student at Bayero University Kano, said many young people were worried about potential unrest.
“We have seen political tensions escalate into violence in the past. Authorities need to act fast to ensure this doesn’t spiral out of control,” she warned.
Meanwhile, Alhaji Usman Shehu, a businessman, described the emirship tussle as a “family affair” that should not jeopardise public safety. He lamented that “people have been denied the joy of celebrating their culture due to political and personal interests. We live in constant fear of what might happen next. This is not the Kano we deserve.”
Arewa PUNCH reports that with tensions rising and no clear resolution in sight, all eyes are on the authorities to intervene before the situation escalates. The coming days will be crucial in determining whether the Sallah durbar will be a celebration of heritage or a flashpoint in Kano’s ongoing emirship crisis.
