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By Lizzy Chirkpi
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has announced its withdrawal of invitation to the Emir of Kano, Sanusi Lamido Sanusi over the recent unrest in Kano State during the Eid-el-Kabir celebration on March 30, 2025.
Instead, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun has directed the Force Intelligence Department (FID) to obtain the Monarch’s statement in Kano.
The initial invitation was issued to gather Alhaji Sanusi’s account of the events that led to the breakdown of law and order. However, following counsel from key stakeholders and in line with the IGP’s commitment to avoiding political interpretations of police actions, the invitation has been rescinded.
ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, Force Public Relations Officer stated that “Following advice from respected stakeholders and in line with the Inspector-General of Police’s commitment to ensuring that policing actions are not politicised or misinterpreted, the IGP has directed that the invitation be withdrawn.”
Prior to the Sallah celebration, intelligence reports indicated that both Alhaji Ado Bayero and Alhaji Lamido Sanusi, the factiona Emirs of Kano, were planning separate Durbar Festivals. To prevent potential violence, the IGP deployed Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Abubakar Sadiq to mediate between the Emirs and the Kano State Government. It was agreed that no Durbar Festivals would be held, and neither Emir would ride on horseback during the Sallah celebration.
“Prior to the Sallah Day celebration, credible intelligence at the disposal of the Police indicated that the two disputed Emirs in Kano State -Alhaji Ado Bayero and Alhaji Lamido Sanusi were planning to hold separate Durbar Festivals,” Adejobi explained.
Despite this agreement, Alhaji Sanusi proceeded to mount a horse in a procession after Eid prayers, accompanied by local vigilantes. This action triggered a confrontation that resulted in the death of Usman Sagiru and injuries to several others.
“Despite this agreement, Alhaji Sanusi who had attended the Eid prayers in his car, decided to mount a horse in a procession after Eid prayers on Sallah Day, accompanied by local vigilantes. This triggered a confrontation by youths in the community, leading to the tragic death of one Usman Sagiru, and leaving several others injured,” Adejobi explained.
The NPF, under the leadership of IGP Egbetokun, reiterated its commitment to conducting a professional and impartial investigation. Arrests have been made, and the Force emphasized that its actions are guided by principles of justice, neutrality, and professionalism.
“The Nigeria Police Force, under the leadership of the IGP remains resolute in its commitment to conducting its criminal investigation duties with the highest level of professionalism including the investigation of this incident. All individuals found culpable will at the end be brought to justice,” Adejobi added.