Police Withdraw Summons for Emir Sanusi Over Sallah Incident
The Nigeria Police Force has cancelled an earlier invitation sent to the 16th Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II. The summons was related to a violent incident during the Sallah celebration in Kano on March 30, 2025.
Sanusi was initially asked to appear in Abuja on April 8. He was to explain his role in a horse-riding procession held after Eid prayers. Police said the event went against earlier security plans.
The invitation was signed by the Commissioner of Police, Olajide Ibitoye, on behalf of the Deputy Inspector General of Police, Force Intelligence Department.
However, on Sunday, Force PRO, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, announced the withdrawal of the invitation. He said the decision followed talks with respected stakeholders. It also aligns with the IGP’s goal to keep police actions free from politics or misinterpretation.
Instead of coming to Abuja, police officers will now go to Kano to take Sanusi’s statement privately.
Adejobi stated, “The invitation was to let Alhaji Sanusi give his version of events that led to violence during the Sallah celebration. But after consultations, the IGP ordered the invitation withdrawn.”
He added that the police will still collect Sanusi’s statement through the Force Intelligence Department.
The IGP had earlier sent DIG Abubakar Sadiq, in charge of the North-West, to speak with both rival emirs—Sanusi and Ado Bayero—and the Kano State Government. The aim was to stop any clashes during Sallah celebrations.
According to police, both sides agreed not to hold separate Durbar festivals. No Emir was to ride a horse during the festival to keep the peace.
Despite the agreement, Sanusi arrived at Eid grounds in a car but later mounted a horse for a procession. He was accompanied by local vigilantes.
This act sparked a clash among local youths. One person, Usman Sagiru, died, and several others were injured.
Adejobi said the police had warned against such actions and regret that their efforts were ignored. He confirmed that arrests have been made, and investigations will continue with fairness and professionalism.
