Confusion as Leaked Police Signal Contradicts Claims of Violence During Eid in Kano

A leaked police wireless signal has cast doubt on claims by the Nigeria Police Force that a violent incident occurred during the recent Eid-el-Fitr celebrations in Kano. The signal, dated March 30, 2025, reported that the prayers were conducted peacefully, contradicting the Force Headquarters’ earlier position, which led to the invitation of Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II for questioning.

Although the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, later withdrew the invitation, many observers accused the police of acting on political motives aimed at embarrassing the emir and destabilising the Kano Emirate. The controversy stems from a situation report sent by the Kano Police Command to the Force Headquarters, which indicated that both Emir Muhammadu Sanusi and Emir Aminu Ado Bayero conducted their prayers peacefully at different locations — Kofar Mata and Nasarawa mini palace, respectively.

The signal, referenced SJ:4161/KNS/DOPS/VOL.63/91 X, explicitly stated that the prayers were held without incident. “Between 08:30am to 09:00am, Eid prayers were conducted peacefully. Emir Aminu Ado Bayero attended prayers at Nasarawa mini palace, while Emir Sanusi Lamido Sanusi prayed at Kofar Mata traditional Eid ground. He was later joined by the executive governor, H.E. Engr. Abba Kabir Yusuf. Similarly, prayers were conducted peacefully throughout the state. Area remains generally calm at the moment,” the signal read.

However, another signal dated March 31 introduced a new twist, reporting a violent incident involving a stabbing that allegedly occurred while Emir Sanusi was returning from the Eid ground. It stated that a 20-year-old man, Usman Sagiru of Sharifai quarters, and his gang attacked two vigilante members attached to the emir’s convoy. One of the victims, Surajo Rabiu, later died from his injuries, while the second, Auwal Suleman, is receiving treatment. The suspect was arrested, while others are still at large.

Despite this, sources within the palace insist that no such incident occurred during the emir’s return from Eid prayers. They questioned the timing and credibility of the police’s claim, noting that the incident reportedly took place at 12:40pm — long after the emir had returned to the palace. The palace also denied any knowledge of the suspect or that he had any connection with the emir’s security detail.

The emir’s camp further dismissed accusations that he violated a government ban on the durbar procession by returning to the palace on horseback. Palace insiders described the act as a religious tradition based on the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and claimed the emir had received government consent to do so. They also challenged the police’s narrative regarding a meeting between the emir and DIG Abubakar Sadiq, stating that the emir made it clear the state governor, as the chief security officer, held the authority over such matters and warned against politicising security in Kano.

The unfolding events have continued to fuel public confusion, with many accusing the police of politicising what had otherwise been a peaceful celebration in a city known for its deep-rooted traditions and complex royal dynamics.