The palace of the 15th Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado Bayero, has taken a significant step toward reviving a major cultural event: it has formally notified the police of plans to hold a full-scale Sallah Durbar celebration. This move directly challenges a standing ban on such processions, imposed after violence stemming from the royal rivalry between Emir Bayero and the 16th Emir, Alhaji Muhammadu Sanusi.
A Formal Request to Lift a Ban
The notification, dated March 7, 2026, was addressed to the Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, and signed by the emir's private secretary, Abdullahi Haruna Kwaru. It goes beyond mere event logistics; it is an explicit request for the police to lift the existing prohibition for the upcoming Sallah holiday. The emirate council confirmed the programme has already been approved by the emir and his council members.
The Planned Festivities
The approved schedule outlines a series of traditional durbar processions, including Hawan Sallah, Hawan Daushe, Hawan Nasarawa, and Hawan Panisau, alongside other cultural performances. All events are slated to be conducted from the emir's palace in Nasarawa, Kano. Full details on dates, times, and venues were included in the schedule shared with security agencies.
A Diplomatic Overture for Peace
The letter frames the event not as a demand, but as a partnership. The emir and his council expressed appreciation for the cooperation of security agencies in maintaining peace in Kano State. This language positions the Durbar as a collaborative effort for a peaceful celebration, signaling a desire to move past previous tensions.
The palace concluded the notification with a prayer for a peaceful and successful Sallah across the state, underscoring a hope for unity. The response from security agencies will now determine whether this cherished cultural tradition can proceed or remains a casualty of past disputes.
