By Milcah Tanimu
Kano residents celebrated Eid-el-Kabir with commendations for the peaceful atmosphere, despite the ongoing emirate crisis. The state’s Commissioner of Police, Hussaini Gumel, recently promoted to Assistant Inspector-General, expressed satisfaction with the calm and orderly conduct of the Sallah prayers across the state.
Reports from all 44 local government areas indicated that the festivities were peaceful and free of conflict. Despite initial fears of potential skirmishes due to the emirship tussle, the celebrations proceeded without incident.
The state police command had banned the Kano Durbar on Thursday to prevent possible anarchy following the emirate crisis. The ban came after the Emir of Kano, Muhammad Sanusi, and the deposed Emir Ado Bayero both requested police security for the Durbar celebrations.
The royal crisis intensified after the reinstatement of Emir Sanusi as the 16th Emir of Kano on May 23, 2024. Governor Abba Yusuf signed the new Kano Emirate Law 2024, recognizing Sanusi’s authority while dismissing the rulers of five emirates established by former Governor Umar Ganduje.
Following the police directive, Bayero and Sanusi led prayers at different mosques, with Bayero at Nassarawa Mosque and Sanusi at Sheikh Tijjani Mosque. Governor Yusuf and other dignitaries joined Sanusi for the prayers.
In his sermon, Sanusi emphasized the importance of following Prophet Muhammad’s teachings and helping the needy, especially during Eid-al-Adha.
Residents praised the peaceful conduct of the prayers and commended the police for maintaining order. Alhaji Mohammad Abubakar from Tauroni Local Government and Alhaji Isa Musa from Charanchi area both highlighted the importance of continued security presence. Alhaji Kabiru Danlami from Dorayi quarters urged residents to support security efforts by reporting suspicious activities.
Meanwhile, the Arewa Youth Advancement Forum extended felicitations to Emir Bayero, urging him to forgive his enemies and commending his commitment to the state’s progress and development. The group’s president, Nuhu Magaji, lauded Bayero’s leadership and dedication to promoting unity and progress in Kano.
“As the Muslim Ummah celebrates Eid al-Adha, the Arewa Youth Advancement Forum extends its warmest felicitations to His Highness, Emir Ado Bayero. Despite recent unfortunate events, we stand in solidarity with Emir Bayero, a symbol of peace, progress, and stability,” the statement read.
The group called on Kano residents to remain peaceful and united, working together for the state’s greater good.