Amid spiraling tension in the city, the 15th Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado Bayero, has cancelled this year’s Sallah festivities, especially the durbar, citing the need to maintain peace and security in the state.
The Emir, in a broadcast, regretted the decision but emphasized that his topmost priority in to ensure the safety of lives and property.
“Following the people’s mandate bestowed upon us and our commitment to their protection,” the Emir said, “we find it necessary to withdraw any arrangements made for the Sallah celebrations given the current situation.”
According to the monarch, he reached the decision after wide-ranging consultations with respected religious leaders and other concerned stakeholders in the emirate.
He stressed that though the Sallah Durbar was a cherished tradition, it should not come at the expense of peace and stability.
“Sallah Durbar is not a do-or-die affair for us,” he continued. “If it risks becoming a source of chaos, loss of lives, or destruction of property, then it is best to shelve it.”
The Daily Trust reports that the Emir expressed hope that the decision would contribute to lasting peace in Kano and the nation at large.
He also extended his profound apologies to the people of Kano, urging them to embrace the decision in the interest of peace and the state’s well-being.
Bayero had earlier written to the police to notify them of his intention to hold Durbar, raising concerns about likelihood of violence since Muhammadu Sanusi, the 16th Emir of Kano, was planning a similar event.
