By Ghazali Ibrahim 
In a move that is set to escalate the protracted Kano Emirship dispute, the embattled 15th Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado Bayero, has formally notified the Kano State Police Command of his intention to conduct this year’s Sallah Durbar to mark the Eid-el-Fitr festival.
According to a letter signed by Bayero’s Private Secretary, Abdullahi Haruna Kwaru, and addressed to the Commissioner of Police, the traditional festivities will include Hawan Sallah, Hawan Daushe, and Hawan Nassarawa on the 2nd and 3rd days of Shawwal 1446 AH. A cultural event is also scheduled to take place on the fourth day.
Notably, this year’s Durbar coincides with Bayero’s five-year anniversary on the throne, a fact that is likely to add to the significance of the event. The letter assured the police that all activities will be conducted peacefully.
This development comes just days after Kano State Governor, Engr. Abba Yusuf, directed Bayero’s rival, 14th and 16th Emir of Kano Muhammadu Sanusi II, to begin preparations for the grand Sallah celebration. The move is seen as a clear indication that the state government recognizes Sanusi as the legitimate emir.
The Kano Emirship tussle has been ongoing since 2020, when Sanusi II was removed and Bayero was appointed in his place.
Despite the Court of Appeal’s recent ruling to maintain the status quo until the Supreme Court delivers a final judgment, Bayero continues to assert his claim to the throne.
The dispute has led to a protracted legal struggle, with both men vying for control of the emirate.
The situation has been further complicated by the fact that no Durbar has been held in Kano since the emirate crisis began, due to security concerns.
As at the time of filing this report, neither the Kano State government nor Emir Sanusi II has responded to Bayero’s move, and the State Police Command has yet to issue a public statement on the development. The situation remains tense, with many watching to see how events will unfold.
