The National Forum of Kano Indigene Lawyers has condemned the ban on Sallah Durbar festivities across Kano’s four emirates. The group insists the prohibition violates both cultural and human rights protected under Nigerian and international laws.
Lawyers Accuse Authorities of Suppressing Tradition
At a press briefing, forum leader Usman Imam Tudun Wazirchi expressed gratitude for the police’s peacekeeping during Sallah. However, he criticized the blanket ban on Durbar, calling it an attack on cultural identity.
“The Durbar is more than a festival—it’s a legal and historical expression of Hausa/Fulani heritage,” Wazirchi said.
Group Defends Emir Sanusi
The lawyers also faulted attempts to implicate Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II in a palace incident that led to a vigilante’s death. Although the police withdrew an earlier summons issued to the Emir, the forum warned against further disrespect.
“We will not tolerate police attempts to undermine the traditional status of our Emir,” Wazirchi stated.
Ban Allegedly Politically Motivated
The forum alleged that the government is using security as an excuse to suppress Emir Sanusi and his supporters. They argue the Durbar ban undermines constitutionally protected rights to cultural expression and religious freedom.
They cited international charters like the ICCPR and African Charter to back their position.
Civil Society Joins the Call for Respect
Meanwhile, the Coalition of Concerned Kano Civil Society Groups (CCKCSG) expressed concern over police politicization in the Kano Emirate crisis. Spokesman Comrade Nura Idris Ali condemned the police for referring to Emir Sanusi as “Alhaji,” not by his full title.
“This misrepresentation insults one of Nigeria’s oldest traditional institutions,” he said.
Groups Demand Apology and Police Neutrality
The coalition demanded an immediate apology and urged police to use the proper title “Emir of Kano, Khalifah Muhammadu Sanusi II.” They also called on the Inspector General and Police Commission to ensure police neutrality in the emirate dispute.
A Call for Dialogue and Cultural Preservation
Both groups urged national leaders to foster reconciliation and uphold Nigeria’s cultural values. They warned that continued interference could escalate tensions and damage centuries-old institutions.
READ ALSO: Appeal Court Halts Reinstatement Of Sanusi II As Emir Of Kano
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