Police Withdraw Emir Sanusi’s Invitation Over Sallah Incident, Cites Stakeholder Advice
The Nigeria Police Force has retracted an earlier invitation issued to the 16th Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, regarding a violent incident that occurred during the Sallah celebrations on March 30, 2025, in Kano.
Initially, the invitation was intended for the Emir to clarify his role in the chain of events that reportedly disrupted public peace. However, following criticism from notable Nigerians such as Atedo Peterside, human rights lawyer Prof. Chidi Odinkalu, and various groups, the Police decided to withdraw the summons.
Police Opt for On-Ground Investigation
In a statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Muyiwa Adejobi, the decision to reverse the invitation was based on advice from stakeholders and the Inspector General of Police’s (IGP) desire to avoid the politicization of police duties.
Instead, operatives from the Force Intelligence Department (FID) will now obtain Emir Sanusi’s statement directly in Kano.
Background: Emirate Durbar Dispute
According to police reports, intelligence had revealed that both disputed Emirs—Alhaji Ado Bayero and Alhaji Sanusi—were planning to hold separate Durbar festivals. The IGP deployed DIG Abubakar Sadiq to negotiate peace, resulting in an agreement that no Emir would mount horses during the celebrations.
However, after attending Eid prayers by car, Emir Sanusi reportedly led a horse-mounted procession accompanied by local vigilantes, which triggered unrest. One person, Usman Sagiru, was fatally stabbed during the altercation.
Police Investigations Ongoing
The Force emphasized that the Emir’s invitation was standard procedure. While some arrests have been made, investigations are still underway, with palace officials such as Shamakin Kano, Wada Isyaku, also summoned.
Criticism Mounts
Prominent figures and civil society groups criticized the police’s approach. Atedo Peterside questioned the rationale of summoning a traditional ruler to Abuja for an incident that occurred within his domain.
Prof. Odinkalu labeled the move politically motivated and destabilizing. Youth groups like the Northern Youth Assembly (NYA) and the Assembly for the Preservation of Traditional Institutions in Nigeria condemned the action as an affront to Northern cultural heritage.
Statements from Concerned Groups
The NYA, through its spokesperson Mohammed Hussaini, warned the police not to further erode trust in traditional institutions. They cautioned the federal government against actions that could be seen as interfering in Kano’s internal affairs.
Another group, led by National Coordinator Alhaji Yahya Nda Musa, called the invitation a “deliberate attempt to undermine the institution of the Emir.” They urged the police to resist being used as a tool for political agendas.
Call for Calm
Despite the tension, all groups urged Kano residents to remain calm and law-abiding as investigations continue. They warned that further provocation could destabilize the region and harm the centuries-old emirate system.
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