The Kano State Police Command has reaffirmed the ban on all Durbar activities across the state for the upcoming Eid-el-Kabir celebrations, citing ongoing security threats. This announcement comes shortly after the Kano Emirate Council issued a circular inviting traditional leaders and horsemen to participate in the annual Sallah Durbar festivities.
In a joint statement released on Sunday with sister security agencies, the police congratulated Muslim faithful and law-abiding residents ahead of the Eid celebrations while urging strict adherence to public safety directives. The statement highlighted that credible intelligence and prior security assessments indicate that the threats prompting the previous ban during Eid-el-Fitr remain active and unresolved.
The police warned that miscreants and their sponsors may attempt to hijack the Durbar celebrations to disrupt public peace, as occurred during the last Sallah festivities. To maintain law and order, the Command outlined several restrictions, including a ban on horse or animal riding (Kilisa), car racing, reckless driving, unlawful possession or display of firearms, and carrying dangerous or suspicious items in public.
Parents and guardians were urged to caution their wards against recruitment by subversive elements, with security agencies pledging strict enforcement of the directives. The police called on citizens to celebrate responsibly and prayed for peace and progress in Kano State and Nigeria, also remembering athletes recently lost in a tragic road accident returning from the National Sports Festival.
The police directive appears to contradict an earlier circular from the Kano Emirate Council, which invited council members and district heads to participate in the Durbar on June 4, 2025, with a formal briefing scheduled for the following day at the Emir’s palace. The Emirate assured that logistical support and coordination with local government authorities were being arranged to facilitate the event.
The situation highlights a tension between traditional cultural celebrations and security concerns as Kano prepares for the Eid-el-Kabir festivities.
