Fresh concerns over public order and security have emerged in Kano following plans by the 15th Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado Bayero, to stage traditional Sallah horse-riding processions during the Eid-el-Kabir celebrations, a development many residents fear could further inflame tensions surrounding the prolonged Kano emirship dispute now awaiting a final determination by the Supreme Court.
The planned durbar activities were announced on Wednesday by the Sarkin Dawaki Babba and senior councillor in Bayero’s palace, Aminu Babba Dan Agundi, who disclosed that security agencies had not barred the emir from carrying out the traditional ceremonies.
The announcement comes at a delicate period in Kano’s political and traditional landscape, with the legal battle over the Kano Emirate still unresolved and the Supreme Court expected to deliver a definitive judgment in April 2027. The pending verdict is expected to determine the validity of the actions that led to the reinstatement of Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II and the removal of the emirs appointed under the administration of former Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, including Bayero.
The dispute has remained one of the most contentious issues in Kano politics since the state government repealed the Kano Emirates Council Law of 2019, which had created additional emirates across the state and facilitated the appointment of several first-class emirs. Following the repeal, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf reinstated Muhammadu Sanusi II as the 16th Emir of Kano, a move immediately challenged in court by affected parties.
