Emir Sanusi II Backs Sallah Durbar Ban for Kano’s Peace and Security

His Highness Muhammadu Sanusi II, the Khalifah of Tijaniyya and Emir of Kano, has expressed support for the recent prohibition of the Sallah Durbar, stating that the decision was necessary for the long-term peace and development of the state.

Speaking during an Iftar supper at the palace on Saturday, attended by prominent figures and Islamic scholars, the former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) emphasized that the Durbar is a historic cultural tradition but not a matter of life and death.

Sanusi explained that while the event is a 15th-century cultural icon typically held at the end of Ramadan, prioritizing peace and security is essential for the progress of any community. As a result, he agreed to cancel all planned celebrations within the emirate.

The Kano State Commissioner of Police, CP Adamu Bakori, had earlier announced the ban on the Sallah Durbar under a joint security directive, citing an imminent security threat as the reason for the decision.

While acknowledging the importance of the Durbar, Emir Sanusi urged Kano residents to cooperate with security forces to ensure law and order before and after the Sallah celebrations.

"The Durbar is not a matter of life and death. The lives and security of Kano residents must always come first," he stated.

Alhaji Ibrahim Umar Faruq, the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), spoke on behalf of Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, commending the Emir for his wisdom and leadership.

The SSG recalled Sanusi’s past generosity, noting that as a lecturer at Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) in the early 1980s, he mentored and inspired many students.

"By agreeing to call off the Eid El-Fitr Durbar, the Emir has shown deep concern for the well-being of Kano residents, and for that, we are grateful," he said.

Similarly, Professor Shehu Galadanci, the Murshid (Chief Imam) of the National Mosque, expressed appreciation for the Emir’s wisdom in prioritizing peace over tradition.