Preparations for the forthcoming Sallah Durbar in Kano have once again brought the emirship dispute into focus, as conflicting positions emerge over who will preside over the centuries-old festival.

The Special Adviser to Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf on Emirates and Chieftaincy Affairs, Professor Tijjani Muhammad Naniya, on Monday stated that Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II would lead the Durbar, describing him as the “legitimate Emir of Kano.”

However, the Commissioner for Information, Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, offered a different position, noting that the matter remains before the courts and cautioning against “unauthorised directives capable of misleading the public.”

Meanwhile, the 15th Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado Bayero, has formally notified the police of his intention to host the Durbar from his Nassarawa mini-palace. His loyalists say preparations are ongoing, raising the possibility of parallel celebrations in the city.

Muhammadu Sanusi II, regarded as the 16th Emir and currently based at the Gidan Rumfa palace, has yet to publicly outline plans for the Durbar.

The dispute dates back to 2019, when the Kano Emirate was split into five under the administration of former Governor Abdullahi Ganduje, a move that reduced Sanusi II’s domain. In 2020, Sanusi was dethroned and subsequently replaced by Bayero.

In 2024, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf repealed the law creating the additional emirates and reinstated Sanusi II. Bayero, who returned to Kano afterward, has continued to assert his claim to the throne from the Nassarawa mini-palace.

The claims have led to parallel activities, including separate prayers and public engagements, and now extend to preparations for the Durbar. Both sides maintain their positions, while the courts are yet to issue a final ruling.

The Durbar, a major cultural event marking Eid celebrations in Kano, has in recent years reflected the ongoing rivalry. During the 2024 Eid celebrations, both emirs held separate prayers and processions. In 2025, security agencies intervened to prevent clashes, though parallel activities still occurred.

With both camps indicating readiness for the 2026 Durbar, residents remain concerned about the likelihood of divided celebrations if no resolution is reached.

The state government has reiterated that the judiciary remains the appropriate avenue for resolving the dispute, as both sides continue to assert their authority. (Daily Trust)