By Charles Pemu 
Kano – The iconic Sallah durbar, a highlight of Eid-el-Kabir celebrations, has been abruptly cancelled by the 16th Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II. The shock announcement, made just hours before the festivities were set to commence on Friday, June 7, 2025, underscores grave security concerns in the state.
Emir Sanusi II, addressing journalists from the Kofar Kudu palace, revealed that the decision was a direct result of urgent consultations with the Kano State Government. Intelligence presented to the Emirate reportedly detailed “nefarious plans” to exploit the highly anticipated durbar procession, specifically the Emir’s movement to ignite widespread tension and potentially create unrest across the state.
“After a series of advice, the emirate council has cancelled the Sallah Durbar activities,” the monarch stated, emphasizing the unavoidable nature of the decision. He promptly directed all district, ward, and village heads to remain within their domains, a move clearly aimed at containing any potential for flashpoints or unauthorized gatherings.
This last-minute cancellation, coming on the very day the durbar was expected to fill Kano’s streets, confirms earlier warnings from joint security agencies that had insisted on a ban. The prevailing security assessment evidently left the Emirate with no alternative but to prioritize public safety over tradition, signaling a credible and imminent threat that could not be managed within the context of such a massive public spectacle. The traditional display of horsemanship and pageantry will not grace Kano today, a stark reminder of underlying tensions.