THE Kano State Government has confirmed that the Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, will lead this year’s Eid-el-Fitr Durbar, even as authorities roll out stringent measures aimed at preventing any breakdown of law and order during the Sallah celebrations.
The decision, approved by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, follows what officials described as credible intelligence reports suggesting that certain individuals may attempt to incite unrest during the festive period.
In a statement sent to News Point Nigeria on Wednesday by the Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, the government reiterated its commitment to preserving Kano’s rich cultural heritage while prioritising the safety of residents.
According to the government, the traditional Hawan Idi (Eid Durbar) will be conducted under the leadership of Emir Sanusi, commencing from the Kofar Mata Eid Ground and proceeding through designated routes to Gidan Shettima, before terminating at Kofar Fatalwa within the emir’s palace.
However, several modifications have been introduced to the centuries-old event. The Hawan Nasarawa procession will hold in a restricted format without the customary horseback displays, while other key activities including Hawan Daushe, Hawan Fanisau, and Hawan Dorayi have been temporarily suspended in the interest of public safety.
Authorities have directed all security agencies to heighten surveillance and ensure strict compliance with the new directives before, during, and after the celebrations.
Residents have also been urged to remain calm, law-abiding, and cooperative with security personnel, with a strong warning against the spread of misinformation that could heighten tensions.
The government assured the public of its resolve to guarantee a peaceful and hitch-free Sallah celebration, extending warm Eid-el-Fitr greetings to Muslims across the state.
The Durbar, a historic and symbolic cultural procession in Kano, has recently been surrounded by uncertainty due to the lingering emirship dispute between Muhammadu Sanusi II and Aminu Ado Bayero.
While Governor Yusuf reinstated Sanusi II in 2024, Bayero has continued to challenge his removal in court, leaving the traditional stool embroiled in legal contention.
Despite the unresolved dispute, the state government has signalled confidence that the matter will soon be resolved, even as it moves ahead with plans to sustain one of Kano’s most cherished cultural traditions under tight security.
