Police Summon Emir Sanusi II for Questioning Over Sallah Procession Violence in Kano

The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has summoned the 16th Emir of Kano, Muhammad Sanusi II, to Abuja for questioning in connection with violence that erupted during the Eid-el-Fitr procession in Kano, which led to the death of a local vigilante member.

The incident occurred on Eid Day as the Emir’s entourage made its way from the Eid prayer ground to the palace. What was meant to be a peaceful tradition turned tragic when the violence resulted in the death of Surajo Rabiu, a vigilante member, and left another person injured.

The official invitation, dated April 4, 2025, was signed by Commissioner of Police, CP Olajide Rufus Ibitoye, on behalf of the Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Force Intelligence Department (FID), Abuja. It requests Emir Sanusi II to appear for an investigative meeting at the Force Intelligence Department in Abuja at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, April 8, 2025.

This development comes at a time of heightened tensions in Kano, especially after the state police banned the annual Durbar festival, citing security concerns. The ban was implemented just days before the Eid celebrations to avoid any potential unrest. Despite this, a motorcade procession led by Emir Sanusi II still took place on the third day of the celebrations.

Meanwhile, Kano State’s Police Commissioner, CP Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, has set up an eight-member Special Investigation Panel (SIP) to probe the violence. As of now, there has been no official statement from the Emir’s palace in response to the police invitation.