Aminu Ado Bayero, the Emir of Kano, has called off the annual Eid-el-Fitr durbar celebration in the state due to security concerns.
The announcement was made at a press event held at the Nasarawa mini palace in Kano, where Bayero explained that religious leaders and other key figures advised against holding the event to maintain peace.
Durbar is a cultural event that usually accompanies the Eid celebrations, featuring prayers and a parade of the emir and his entourage on horseback.
However, rising tensions surrounding the emirship dispute in Kano contributed to fears that the festival could lead to unrest.
Bayero’s position as Emir has been under dispute since May 2024, when the Kano State House of Assembly amended a law that led to the reinstatement of Muhammadu Sanusi, a former emir.
This action displaced Bayero, who has since been challenging his dethronement in court.
While a court of appeal recently suspended its own earlier ruling on the matter, both Bayero and Sanusi continue to claim the emirship.
In the midst of this dispute, Kano’s governor, Abba Yusuf, had instructed all four emirates in the state to begin preparations for a festive durbar celebration.
Bayero followed by informing security agencies of plans to commemorate his fifth year as Kano’s monarch.
However, concerns emerged that rival factions supporting Bayero and Sanusi could clash during the event.
In light of these potential risks, Bayero urged residents of Kano to celebrate Eid peacefully, without large public gatherings.
The emir stressed the importance of prioritizing harmony within the community as the court battle over the emirship continues.
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