The Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, on Friday walked more than one kilometre from his palace to the Eid prayer ground, foregoing the traditional horseback procession associated with the Eid-el-Kabir celebrations.

This came after the Emir suspended the 2025 Sallah Durbar on Thursday, citing credible threats to his life.

The Emir, dressed in traditional regalia, walked from his palace to the Eid ground at Kofar Mata, where he led the two-rakat Eid prayer.

In a special broadcast from the Kofar Kudu Palace on the eve of the celebration, Sanusi announced the suspension, emphasizing the need to prioritise public safety during the festive period.

He said, “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 mobilised 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.”

He reiterated his commitment to preserving peace in Kano, warning against any politically motivated violence during or after the celebrations.

During the last Eid-el-Fitr, Emir Sanusi had participated in the traditional horseback parade, which tragically ended in an attack on his convoy, resulting in one fatality.

After leading Friday’s Eid prayer, Sanusi delivered a sermon urging residents to collaborate with security agencies in tackling rising insecurity and the surge in youth thuggery across the state.

The Eid prayer was attended by the Deputy Governor of Kano State, Aminu Gwarzo, Secretary to the State Government, Umar Faruq, members of the State Executive Council, traditional rulers, and thousands of Muslim worshippers.

On his return to the palace, the 16th Emir was transported by vehicle, flanked by a large crowd of supporters who walked alongside in solidarity.

PUNCH Online had reported that the Kano State Police Command reaffirmed its ban on all Durbar-related activities across the state for the 2025 Eid-el-Kabir, warning against any violations.

The command restated its restrictions, which include a ban on “horse or animal riding, car racing, reckless or dangerous driving,” and the “unlawful possession or public display of firearms and weapons, or any suspicious or dangerous objects capable of triggering panic.”

(The PUNCH)