The Kano State Government has announced restrictions on durbar processions in the metropolis to prevent clashes between supporters of the two claimants to the Emir of Kano stool. This decision was made after the unexpected public appearance of the 15th Emir, Aminu Ado-Bayero, on Sunday. Mr. Ado-Bayero led a procession from the mini palace on State Road to his private residence in Mandawar, with thousands of people lining the route.
The procession route took the monarch through IBB Way, Wambai, Zage, and Yola Road before arriving at his Mandawari residence. Mr. Ado-Bayero moved to the residence to attend a Qur’anic school graduation ceremony at Balarabe Adamu Litahafizul Qur’an Wadirasatul Islammiyya in the Yakasai quarters of the metropolis, scheduled for 4 p.m. The government has expressed security concerns over the planned activities.
The governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature, announced the restrictions in a statement. The State Government has restricted all forms of durbar processions and horse-riding activities within the Kano metropolis until further notice. This decision was made after an emergency meeting of the State Security Council held at the Government House, Kano, where the security situation surrounding the planned activities was reviewed.
The State Security Council resolved to take precautionary measures to prevent any possible confrontation, preserve public order, and avoid any potential loss of lives or property damage. The council directed that the planned durbar processions and horse-riding activities be suspended. All relevant security agencies in the state have been directed to enforce the restriction and take appropriate lawful action against anyone who violates the directive.
The Kano emirate crisis stems from a protracted political and legal struggle over the Kano traditional stool. Both Emir Lamido Sanusi and Mr. Ado-Bayero are laying claim to the throne from separate palaces within the city. Both men conduct traditional rites, court sessions, and public functions independently. Mr. Sanusi occupies the main Gidan Rumfa palace with the full backing and recognition of the Kano State Government.
Mr. Ado-Bayero operates out of the Nassarawa mini-palace under heavy federal security protection. Governor Abba Yusuf and the state administration recognise Mr. Sanusi under the Kano State Emirate Council (Repeal) Law 2024. Conversely, Mr. Ado-Bayero receives backing from elements within the federal government and political figures in the state while challenging his removal in court.
The Supreme Court adjourned hearing the appeal filed on behalf of Mr. Ado-Bayero’s camp seeking to void the appointment of Mr. Sanusi as the lawful emir of Kano in April. The hearing is scheduled for April 2027 at the apex court. The Kano State Government urges all residents, traditional institutions, political actors, supporters, and other stakeholders to remain calm, peaceful, and law-abiding and to comply fully with the directive.
Key points
- The Kano State Government restricts durbar processions amid the emirate crisis.
- Two emirs, Lamido Sanusi and Aminu Ado-Bayero, are laying claim to the Kano traditional stool.
- The Supreme Court will hear the appeal on the appointment of Mr. Sanusi as the lawful emir of Kano in April 2027.
