By Parrot Newspaper 
Tension in Kano as Sanusi, Bayero Set for Sallah Durbar Showdown
Kano’s Emirship Tussle Resurfaces Ahead of Eid Festivities
Tension is mounting in Kano State as the 2025 Sallah Durbar approaches, with two rival emirs—Alhaji Muhammadu Sanusi II, the 16th Emir of Kano, and Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero, the 15th Emir of Kano—both preparing to hold the grand annual celebration.
The dispute over the Kano emirate throne has been a subject of legal and political contention for years, but the upcoming durbar has reignited concerns about security and possible unrest in the state.
Bayero Seeks Police Approval for Sallah Procession
Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf had recently instructed monarchs to prepare for the durbar, an iconic celebration marking the end of Ramadan. Following this directive, Emir Bayero officially notified the Kano State Police Command of his intention to hold the event.
According to a letter signed by Bayero’s Private Secretary, Abdullahi Haruna Kwaru, the durbar is set to begin at the end of March 2025, featuring the traditional processions:
Hawan Sallah (First day of Shawwal)
Hawan Daushe (Second day)
Hawan Nassarawa (Third day)
A cultural event on the fourth day
The letter also highlighted that the event would coincide with Bayero’s fifth anniversary as Emir, promising that all activities would be peaceful and conducted under strict security measures.
A History of Kano’s Royal Dispute
The Kano emirate tussle dates back to 2020, when legislative actions led to the removal of Sanusi II from the throne, paving the way for Bayero’s appointment. However, in 2024, another legislative intervention reinstated Sanusi II, reversing the 2020 law.
Refusing to accept his dethronement, Bayero relocated to the Nasarawa mini-palace, where he continues to hold court, deepening the divide within the emirate.
With both leaders now planning separate Sallah Durbar celebrations, tensions are at an all-time high. The Kano State Government and Emir Sanusi II have yet to officially respond to Bayero’s letter, but their stance in the coming days could determine the course of events.
Public Concern Over Potential Clashes
The unfolding situation has left Kano residents deeply worried. Many fear the durbar could escalate into a violent confrontation between rival factions, given the historical significance and emotional attachment to the emirship.
Malam Haladu Bello, a 78-year-old resident of Kano, expressed his fears:
> “We all love the Sallah durbar, but at what cost? Leaders should prioritize peace over their personal interests. If this issue is not handled carefully, innocent lives may be lost.”
Similarly, Alhaji Usman Shehu, a 30-year-old resident, described the emirship battle as a family affair that should not endanger public safety:
> “The people of Kano deserve peace. We do not want to live in fear during what should be a time of celebration.”
Will the Authorities Intervene?
As the Sallah celebrations draw closer, all eyes are on the Kano State Government, security agencies, and traditional institutions. The police are yet to issue a statement regarding Bayero’s letter, and it remains uncertain whether they will permit two parallel durbars.
The 2025 Kano Sallah Durbar could either be a symbol of peace and cultural pride or a flashpoint for further tensions. The coming days will determine whether diplomacy and governance can resolve the longstanding emirship dispute or if the rift will widen even further.
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Key Takeaways:
✅ Two rival emirs—Sanusi II and Bayero—plan separate Sallah Durbar celebrations
✅ Bayero has officially notified the police, Sanusi II yet to respond
✅ Kano residents express fear over possible clashes
✅ Authorities’ response in the coming days will be critical
Will Kano witness a peaceful durbar or a fresh round of royal rivalry? Stay with Parrot Newspaper for updates.