By Titilope Adako

Nigeria – Kano: The Kano Emirship crisis has taken a new turn as the 15th Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado Bayero, formally notified the state police of his intention to hold this year’s Sallah Durbar despite the ongoing legal and political dispute.

In a letter signed by his Private Secretary, Abdullahi Haruna Kwaru, Bayero informed the Kano State Police Command of plans to conduct the traditional Sallah festivities, including Hawan Sallah, Hawan Daushe, and Hawan Nassarawa, on the 2nd and 3rd days of Shawwal 1446 AH.

A cultural event is also scheduled for the fourth day.

The move comes shortly after Governor Abba Yusuf directed Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II, the reinstated 16th Emir of Kano, to prepare for the grand Sallah celebration, further deepening the rivalry between the two monarchs.

Bayero’s letter stressed that this year’s Durbar holds additional significance as it marks his fifth anniversary on the throne.

“The purpose of this letter is to formally notify the security agencies in Kano State, particularly the police force, that this year’s Sallah events coincide with five years of His Highness on the throne of his forefathers, with the assurance that all activities will be conducted peacefully,” the letter read.

The Kano Emirship dispute, which began with Sanusi’s removal in 2020, escalated in 2024 after the state government reinstated him. Bayero, who had replaced Sanusi, continues to assert his legitimacy, leading to a prolonged legal battle.

A recent Court of Appeal ruling maintained the status quo, leaving the Supreme Court to decide the final outcome.

This year’s Sallah Durbar is expected to be the first since the crisis began, with previous celebrations suspended due to security concerns.

Observers see Bayero’s planned Durbar as a strategic move to reaffirm his authority.

As of the time of filing this report, neither the Kano State Government nor Emir Sanusi II has officially responded to Bayero’s move.

The Kano State Police Command is also yet to issue a public statement.