The Kano State Police Command has reaffirmed its stance on banning all forms of Durbar and horse-riding activities in the state, emphasizing that the directive remains in force and binding on all individuals, regardless of their status. This statement was made by Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, during a press briefing at the Bompai Police Headquarters, representing all security agencies in the state. The briefing was convened to address reports of apparent breaches of the security directive imposed by the state government.
The ban was initially implemented as a preventive measure to preserve public peace and prevent clashes linked to the ongoing emirship tussle in Kano. According to CP Bakori, the decision to sustain the ban was driven by the need to mitigate potential threats to public safety. He noted that despite efforts to manage the situation, the threats remain potent, necessitating sustained enforcement. The police have been working to balance the rights of individuals with the need to maintain public order.
The disputed 15th Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado Bayero, was among those restricted from horse-riding to avoid violence. However, he reportedly trekked to the Nassarawa Palace, during which posters of President Bola Tinubu and Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf were allegedly destroyed. This development highlights the tensions surrounding the emirship tussle and the challenges faced by security agencies in maintaining peace.
In contrast, the 16th Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, who returned from a long foreign trip, was received by supporters with a thunderous welcome. Notably, Sanusi managed to restrain the crowd from engaging in unruly conduct, demonstrating his influence in maintaining order. However, his decision to ride on horseback to the Independence Day anniversary celebration stirred controversy and attracted criticism from opposition figures.
CP Bakori emphasized that any person or institution intending to hold any Durbar or animal-riding activity in public must provide at least 72 hours written notice to the police through the Commissioner of Police. This requirement aims to enable the police to assess potential security risks and deploy necessary measures to ensure public safety. The police are working to strike a balance between individual freedoms and the need to maintain law and order.
The Joint Security Meeting has resolved to maintain a united stance on enforcing the ban, with security agencies committed to safeguarding public peace and order in Kano. CP Bakori urged residents to comply with all lawful directives, assuring them that the police and other security agencies are working together to address security concerns. The police are taking a proactive approach to preventing potential clashes and maintaining stability.
The situation in Kano remains sensitive, with the emirship tussle and related tensions posing challenges to public safety. The police and other security agencies are working to manage the situation, emphasizing that the ban on Durbar and horse-riding activities will continue to be enforced. Residents are being urged to remain calm and to cooperate with security agencies in maintaining public peace.
Key points
- The Kano State Police Command has reaffirmed its ban on Durbar and horse-riding activities.
- The ban was imposed to prevent clashes linked to the ongoing emirship tussle.
- Security agencies are working together to enforce the ban and maintain public safety.
