KANO, NIGERIA – The Kano State Government has officially confirmed that the 16th Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, will lead this year’s Eid-el-Fitr Durbar. The decision, approved by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, follows credible intelligence reports suggesting that certain individuals intended to exploit the festivities to incite unrest.
While the government reaffirmed its commitment to preserving Kano’s cultural heritage, it has introduced stringent security guidelines and modified the traditional program to ensure public safety.
Approved Activities and Route
The government has cleared the Hawan Idi to proceed under the leadership of Emir Sanusi II. The procession will follow a specific, approved route beginning at the Kofar Mata Eid Ground, passing through designated areas to Gidan Shettima, and terminating at Kofar Fatalwa within the Emir’s Palace.
The government has cleared the Hawan Idi to proceed under the leadership of Emir Sanusi II. The procession will follow a specific, approved route beginning at the Kofar Mata Eid Ground, passing through designated areas to Gidan Shettima, and terminating at Kofar Fatalwa within the Emir’s Palace.
Restricted and Suspended Events
To prevent a breakdown of law and order, several traditional Sallah events have been altered or cancelled. The Hawan Nasarawa will be held in a modified, restricted format without the traditional horseback procession. Furthermore, the Hawan Daushe, Hawan Fanisau, and Hawan Dorayi have all been suspended for this year’s celebrations.
To prevent a breakdown of law and order, several traditional Sallah events have been altered or cancelled. The Hawan Nasarawa will be held in a modified, restricted format without the traditional horseback procession. Furthermore, the Hawan Daushe, Hawan Fanisau, and Hawan Dorayi have all been suspended for this year’s celebrations.
Security Measures and Warnings
The Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, stated that security agencies have been placed on high alert and directed to enforce these directives strictly. The government has warned against the spread of unverified information and urged residents to cooperate fully with security personnel.
The Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, stated that security agencies have been placed on high alert and directed to enforce these directives strictly. The government has warned against the spread of unverified information and urged residents to cooperate fully with security personnel.
The decision comes amid the ongoing leadership dispute in the Kano Emirate, as the 15th Emir, Aminu Ado Bayero, had reportedly also notified police of plans to hold parallel activities from the Nasarawa Palace. Authorities have emphasized that the maintenance of peace in Kano takes precedence over any traditional displays.
