Emir of Kano, Khalifa Muhammadu Sanusi II, has announced the suspension of this year’s Sallah Durbar, citing credible intelligence suggesting a threat to his life.

In a special broadcast at his palace on the eve of Eid-el-Kabir, the Emir said he took the decision to safeguard public peace and ensure the security of lives during the festive period.

He disclosed that intelligence reports indicated possible attacks targeting him during the traditional procession.

“As a precautionary measure, we have decided to suspend the Sallah Durbar. We have credible reports that some youths in the Zage and Kofar Wambai areas have been mobilized by unpatriotic politicians to attack us.

“Therefore, we urge all district, ward, and village heads to remain in their locations and adhere strictly to this directive to avoid any unforeseen incidents,” Sanusi stated.

The Emir emphasised that the peace and tranquillity Kano enjoys must not be jeopardized by politically motivated unrest.

He warned against any form of violence during and after the Sallah celebrations.

Earlier, the Kano State Joint Security Command had imposed a total ban on all Sallah-related activities, including the Durbar procession, horse riding, car racing, and other associated gatherings, citing persistent security threats.

The ban was announced just hours after the Kano Emirate Council issued a circular inviting district heads and their horsemen to participate in the annual Durbar festival.

In its statement, the security command said: “The threats which prompted the earlier decision during the last Eid-el-Fitr are still active. Intelligence reports suggest that certain miscreants and their sponsors are planning to hijack the Durbar celebration to cause unrest, similar to what occurred during the previous Sallah festivities.”

The statement outlined several restrictions to maintain law and order, including a ban on horse or animal riding (Kilisa), car racing, unlawful possession or display of weapons, and carrying suspicious or dangerous items in public.

The Emir reiterated his commitment to peace and urged all citizens to remain law-abiding, avoid provocation, and support security agencies in preserving public order throughout the festive period. (The Guardian)