Preparations for the upcoming Sallah Durbar in Kano have reignited the emirship conflict, specifically regarding who will oversee the traditional event.
On Monday, Professor Tijjani Muhammad Naniya, the Special Adviser to Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf on Emirates and Chieftaincy Affairs, announced that Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II would preside over the Durbar, referring to him as the "legitimate Emir of Kano."
In contrast, Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, the Commissioner for Information, presented a differing viewpoint. He emphasized that the issue is still before the courts and warned against any "unauthorized directives that might confuse the public."
Meanwhile, the 15th Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado Bayero, has formally informed the police of his plans to host the Durbar from his mini-palace in Nassarawa. His supporters indicate that preparations are in progress, suggesting that parallel celebrations might take place in the city.
Currently situated at the Gidan Rumfa palace, Muhammadu Sanusi II, recognized as the 16th Emir, has not yet publicly announced his plans for the Durbar.
This disagreement originated in 2019 when the Kano Emirate was divided into five by the former Governor Abdullahi Ganduje, which reduced Sanusi II’s territorial control. The following year, Sanusi was deposed and replaced with Bayero.
In 2024, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf overturned the law that established the additional emirates, hence reinstating Sanusi II. Afterward, Bayero returned to Kano, continuing to assert his claim from the Nassarawa mini-palace.
The conflicting claims have resulted in multiple events, including separate prayers and public functions, now extending to preparations for the Durbar. Both factions persist in their positions as the courts have yet to deliver a final verdict.
The Durbar, an important cultural celebration coinciding with Eid in Kano, has recently underscored the ongoing rivalry. During the Eid festivities in 2024, both emirs held individual prayers and processions. The following year, security forces intervened to avoid confrontations, but parallel activities still unfolded.
As both sides prepare for the 2026 Durbar, there are increasing concerns among residents regarding the potential for divided celebrations if a resolution is not achieved soon.
The state administration reiterated that the judicial system is the appropriate channel to resolve this emirship conflict, as both emirs continue to assert their power.
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