Kano's joint security forces have issued a formal warning to both the 16th Emir, Muhammadu Sanusi II, and the 15th Emir, Aminu Ado Bayero, stating they face arrest if their actions threaten peace in the state. The warning follows fresh incidents that reignited tensions between the rival royal camps, with the executive order banning horse riding and durbar processions remaining fully in force for all residents regardless of status.
Fresh Violations Trigger Emergency Security Meeting
Commissioner of Police Ibrahim Adamu Bakori addressed journalists on Friday, October 2, after an emergency security meeting, making clear that the ban applies to everyone in Kano. The immediate flashpoint came on Thursday, October 1, when Emir Sanusi II rode a white horse at the head of hundreds of supporters to the 66th Independence Anniversary celebration at Sani Abacha Stadium, an event attended by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf.
The procession appeared to contradict the standing government restriction on such activities. Bayero's camp reacted swiftly, with a senior counsellor and Sarkin Dawakin Babban to Bayero publicly threatening to organise a full-blown durbar in response, a move the security forces said they would not permit.
Background of the Durbar Ban
The ban was introduced after an earlier royal procession by Bayero through the city centre was linked to the destruction of public property, including political banners belonging to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Yusuf. Police confirmed a breakdown of public order following that incident and said five people were arrested in connection with it.
Speaking alongside the director of the Department of State Services (DSS), Abubakar Hussaini, CP Bakori said the joint security meeting had resolved to enforce strict compliance with the ban going forward.
New 72-Hour Notice Requirement Announced
Under the new directives, any institution or organisation wishing to hold any form of durbar or horse and animal-riding activity in a public place must submit written notice to the Kano State Police Command through the Commissioner of Police's office at least 72 hours in advance. Bakori said the notice would allow the command to carry out a security assessment and make arrangements to preserve law and order.
He added that anyone or any group found violating the embargo from this point would face prosecution, naming both emirs explicitly as subject to that warning.
Emir Sanusi's Separate Comments on Anti-Corruption
In a separate development, Emir Sanusi II recently raised serious concerns about the integrity of Nigeria's anti-corruption campaign, alleging that political connections can shield suspects from prosecution while others remain detained without conviction. The Kano monarch spoke on Monday, September 28, during an interview with Channels Television on the sidelines of the Lagos launch of 'The Unexplained Wealth Trilogy', a book by senior advocate Wahab Shittu.
The new security measures take immediate effect, with the police command expecting full compliance from all parties to prevent further escalation of tensions in Kano.
