FRESH developments have emerged in the lingering Kano Emirate dispute as the palace of the 15th Fulani Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado Bayero, formally notified the Nigeria Police Force in the state of plans to organise traditional Sallah Durbar festivities.
News Point Nigeria notification comes amid heightened tensions within the ancient emirate and only days before the Supreme Court of Nigeria is expected to deliver a landmark judgment on the protracted legal battle over the Kano Emirate structure.
In a letter dated March 7, 2026 and obtained by News Point Nigeria, the emir’s palace informed the Nigeria Police Force in Kano about preparations for the Sallah celebrations.
The letter, addressed to the Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, stated that the durbar activities would be conducted from the emir’s palace located in Nasarawa Palace Kano.
Signed by the emir’s Private Secretary, Abdullahi Haruna Kwaru, the correspondence indicated that the programme of events had already received the approval of Emir Bayero and members of the Kano Emirate Council.
According to the letter, the planned Sallah celebrations will feature a series of traditional durbar processions that form a central part of Kano’s cultural heritage.
The palace outlined that the festivities would include several iconic durbar events such as: Hawan Sallah, Hawan Daushe, Hawan Nasarawa and Hawan Panisau.
These colourful horse-riding processions, usually accompanied by cultural displays and royal pageantry, are among the most prominent traditional ceremonies in northern Nigeria.
The palace noted that the detailed schedule of the events—including dates, venues and timing—had been attached to the notification letter and forwarded to relevant security agencies to guide preparations.
It also expressed appreciation to security agencies for their continued cooperation in maintaining peace and stability across Kano State.
The notification comes against the backdrop of previous security concerns surrounding the durbar festival.
Authorities had earlier placed restrictions on durbar celebrations after violence broke out amid the rivalry between Emir Bayero and the 16th Fulani Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II.
The dispute between the two monarchs has remained a sensitive issue in the state, with supporters of both traditional rulers laying claim to legitimacy following controversial political and legal developments surrounding the emirate.
Security agencies had previously warned that large public gatherings linked to the dispute could trigger unrest if not carefully managed.
Adding another layer of tension to the situation is the impending judgment by the Supreme Court of Nigeria, which is expected to rule within days on the legal battle surrounding the Kano Emirate.
The apex court is currently considering appeals arising from the controversial restructuring of the emirate by the state government and the subsequent reinstatement and recognition of traditional rulers.
Sources familiar with the court proceedings told News Point Nigeria that the judgment will determine the legality of the emirate restructuring as well as clarify the extent of the powers of the Kano State Government over traditional institutions.
The outcome may also settle lingering questions about recognition and authority within the emirate system, which has been at the centre of intense political and traditional contestation in recent years.
For centuries, the durbar festival has served not only as a cultural spectacle but also as a symbol of royal authority and community unity in Kano.
However, with the emirate crisis still unresolved and the Supreme Court judgment imminent, this year’s Sallah festivities could carry deeper political and symbolic meaning.
Despite the tensions, the palace expressed optimism that the upcoming Sallah celebrations would be conducted peacefully.
The emirate council prayed for calm and a successful celebration across Kano State while urging continued collaboration with security agencies to ensure order during the festivities.