Fresh concerns over security in Kano State have forced both Muhammadu Sanusi II and Aminu Ado Bayero to suspend all remaining Eid-el-Kabir durbar activities earlier planned for the Sallah celebrations.

The decision was announced separately by representatives of the two rival emirate camps after growing tension surrounding the parallel festivities scheduled across the state.

The situation had already drawn public attention after both emirs unveiled independent durbar programmes for the festive season, sparking fears among residents over the possibility of clashes in areas where the processions could intersect.

Addressing journalists on behalf of Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II, the Matawallen Kano, Alhaji Aliyu Ibrahim, disclosed that security reports made available to the emirate council revealed alleged plans by certain elements to exploit the celebrations to trigger unrest in the state.

He explained that suspending the remaining activities was a necessary step aimed at preserving public order and ensuring that the Eid celebrations were not overshadowed by violence or disorder.

In a similar development, Alhaji Aminu Babba Dan’agundi, the Sarkin Dawaki Babba, announced the suspension on behalf of Aminu Ado Bayero. He said the decision was reached following consultations with security agencies, which advised that any event capable of escalating tension should be put on hold.

Dan’agundi maintained that Bayero’s camp would continue to respect the directives of security authorities and remain committed to peace and stability in Kano.

Before the suspension, both emirs had successfully held separate durbar outings on Wednesday along different routes in the ancient city, with large numbers of supporters turning out in solidarity with their respective camps.

However, anxiety heightened after plans emerged for additional processions in locations where both groups were expected to converge, raising fears of a possible breakdown of law and order.

The lingering Kano emirship dispute dates back to 2024 when Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf reinstated Muhammadu Sanusi II as the Emir of Kano and consequently removed Aminu Ado Bayero from the throne.

Sanusi himself had earlier been dethroned in 2020 by former governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, a move that triggered years of political and legal controversy surrounding the emirate.

Since the renewed tussle began, several major cultural and traditional activities linked to the Kano Emirate have faced uncertainty due to the unresolved leadership battle.

The legal dispute remains before the courts, with the Supreme Court recently adjourning final judgment on the matter until April 2027.