The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has rescinded its previous invitation to the 16th Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, following the tragic incident that occurred in Kano State during the Sallah celebration on March 30, 2025. The decision came after consultations with key stakeholders and in alignment with the Inspector-General of Police’s (IGP) commitment to ensuring that policing actions are not politicized or misinterpreted. As a result, the IGP directed that the invitation to the monarch be withdrawn.
Purpose of the Invitation
The invitation was initially extended to allow Emir Sanusi II to provide his account of the events that led to the breakdown of law and order in the state. However, following the IGP’s instructions, operatives from the Force Intelligence Department (FID) have been assigned to travel to Kano to collect Emir Sanusi II’s statement in place of the previous invitation.
Intelligence and Preventative Measures
Force PRO, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, disclosed that before the Sallah Day celebration, credible intelligence obtained by the police indicated that the two rival Emirs in the Kano Emirate , Alh Aminu Ado Bayero and Sanusi II, were planning to hold separate Durbar Festivals. The Durbar Festival is a time-honored tradition where a recognized emir rides on horseback around the city, accompanied by his people.
To prevent any potential violence, the IGP, Kayode Egbetokun, deployed the coordinating DIG for the North West, DIG Abubakar Sadiq, who also serves as the Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of the Force Criminal Investigation Department. DIG Sadiq was tasked with initiating dialogue between the two disputing emirs and the Kano State Government.
Breach of Agreement and Tragic Outcome
It was mutually agreed by all parties involved that no Durbar Festival would be held in order to preserve peace and public safety, and neither of the disputed emirs would ride horses on Sallah Day. However, despite this agreement, Emir Sanusi, who had attended the Eid prayers in his car, decided to mount a horse for a procession after the prayers on Sallah Day. He was accompanied by local vigilantes.
This action triggered a confrontation with youths in the community, leading to the tragic death of one Usman Sagiru and leaving several others injured. This situation was one that the police had previously warned against and sought to avoid through early interventions.
