By: Daure David
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has officially withdrawn the invitation extended to Alhaji Sanusi following the tragic incident that occurred during the Sallah celebration in Kano State on March 30, 2025. The invitation, which was initially extended for the purpose of gathering Alhaji Sanusi’s account of the events surrounding the unrest, has been rescinded following advice from key stakeholders. The move aligns with the commitment of the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Dr. Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, to ensure that policing activities remain neutral and free from political interference.
In place of the invitation, the IGP has directed that operatives from the Force Intelligence Department (FID) travel to Kano to obtain Alhaji Sanusi’s statement regarding the events that led to the breakdown of law and order.
Prior to the Sallah celebration, the police had received credible intelligence indicating that there was a possibility of unrest in Kano due to conflicting plans by two disputed Emirs, Alhaji Ado Bayero and Alhaji Lamido Sanusi, to hold separate Durbar festivals. The Durbar Festival, a long-standing tradition in Kano, typically involves an Emir parading on horseback around the city accompanied by their supporters.
To prevent violence, the IGP deployed Deputy Inspector-General of Police (DIG) Abubakar Sadiq, mni, to mediate between the two Emirs and the Kano State Government. It was agreed that no Durbar Festival would take place on Sallah Day, and that neither of the disputing Emirs would participate in the traditional horse ride.
However, despite this agreement, Alhaji Sanusi, who had attended the Eid Prayers, mounted a horse in a procession after the prayers. Accompanied by local vigilantes, Sanusi’s procession sparked a confrontation with youths in the community, which escalated into violence. The unrest led to the tragic death of one Usman Sagiru, with several others sustaining injuries.
The Nigeria Police Force, under the leadership of IGP Egbetokun, remains committed to conducting a thorough investigation into the incident with professionalism and impartiality. The police have already made arrests in connection with the violence, and those found responsible will face justice. The Force reiterated that its actions are guided by the principles of justice, neutrality, and professionalism, ensuring that law enforcement actions are not politicized or misinterpreted.
In response to the ongoing investigation, the police are determined to ensure that all individuals involved in the violence will be held accountable in accordance with the law.
