Police invite Emir Sanusi for questioning over Sallah durbar incident
Amid mounting security concerns in Kano State, the Nigeria Police Force has summoned the 16th Emir of Kano, Muhammad Sanusi II, for questioning following a deadly altercation that occurred during the recent Eid-el-Fitr celebrations.
The tragic incident, which unfolded on Eid Day during the Emir’s traditional procession from the prayer ground to the palace, resulted in the death of a vigilante member, Surajo Rabiu, and left another person injured. The clash, which disrupted the otherwise festive atmosphere, has since sparked calls for accountability.
PRNigeria reports that the invitation to the Emir was issued via an official letter dated April 4, 2025, and signed by Commissioner of Police, CP Olajide Rufus Ibitoye, on behalf of the Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of the Force Intelligence Department (FID), Abuja.
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The letter stated: “I have the directives of the Inspector General of Police, through the Deputy Inspector General of Police, Force Intelligence Department (FID), to invite you for an investigative meeting with regards to an incident that occurred during the Sallah celebration within your domain.”
The Emir is expected to appear at the Force Intelligence Department headquarters in Abuja by 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, April 8, 2025.
This development comes in the wake of the controversial ban placed on the traditional Durbar festival by the Kano State Police Command, citing security threats. The prohibition, announced days before Eid, was aimed at curbing potential unrest during the religious festivities.
In response to the incident, the State Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, inaugurated an eight-member Special Investigation Panel to thoroughly probe the circumstances surrounding the fatal procession.
As of press time, there has been no official reaction from the Emir’s palace regarding the police summons. The unfolding scenario underscores the fragile security climate in Kano and the complexities surrounding traditional authority and law enforcement in the state.
By PRNigeria