Hussaini Kafi in Kano
The Nigeria Police Force has officially withdrawn the earlier invitation extended to Alhaji Muhammadu Sanusi II in connection with the incident that occurred during the Sallah celebration in Kano State on March 30, 2025.
In a statement issued on Sunday, April 6, by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the Police announced that, rather than summon Sanusi to Abuja, operatives of the Force Intelligence Department (FID) have been directed by the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, to travel to Kano and obtain his statement.
The Police explained that the decision followed advice from respected stakeholders and was aimed at ensuring that policing actions are not politicized or misinterpreted.
“The Nigeria Police Force has withdrawn its earlier invitation extended to Alhaji Sanusi… Following advice from respected stakeholders and in line with the Inspector-General of Police’s commitment to ensuring that policing actions are not politicized or misinterpreted, the IGP has directed that the invitation be withdrawn,” the statement read in part.
According to the Police, credible intelligence prior to the Sallah Day celebration indicated that the two disputed Emirs in Kano State — Alhaji Ado Bayero and Alhaji Lamido Sanusi — were planning to hold separate Durbar Festivals.
The Durbar Festival is a long-held tradition which involves a recognized Emir riding on horses around the city in company of his people.
To prevent possible violence, the IGP deployed the Coordinating DIG for the North West, who also serves as the Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of the Force Criminal Investigation Department, DIG Abubakar Sadiq, to engage in dialogue with the two disputed Emirs and the Kano State Government.
“It was mutually agreed that no Durbar Festival would be held to preserve peace and public safety and none of the disputed emirs will ride on horse on Sallah day,” the statement added.
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.
The Police said it had earlier warned against such a situation and had sent emissaries to both Alhaji Sanusi and Alhaji Ado Bayero to avert any crisis.
The Nigeria Police Force stated that it remains resolute in its commitment to conducting its criminal investigation duties with the highest level of professionalism, including the investigation of this incident.
Some arrests have been made, prompting the initial invitation to Alhaji Sanusi.
“The Force also wishes to reiterate that its actions are guided solely by the principles of justice, neutrality, and professionalism,” the statement concluded.
The press release was signed by ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, Force Public Relations Officer, Force Headquarters, Abuja, and dated 6th April 2025.
