Authorities in Kano State have confirmed that the ban on all forms of durbar activities will remain in place during the upcoming 2025 Eid-el-Kabir celebrations, citing security threats and intelligence reports of potential unrest.
The announcement was made on Tuesday by the Kano State Police Command, which stated that credible intelligence had prompted collaboration with other security agencies to maintain law and order during the Sallah festivities.
“Acting on credible intelligence, the command, in collaboration with all security agencies in the state, pronounced a total ban on all forms of durbar activities throughout the state, as part of our collective commitment to sustaining peace and security,” the statement said.
The police also extended the ban to horse or animal riding, car racing, reckless driving, and public display of weapons or any suspicious items that could incite fear or disorder.
Concerns over escalating tensions between Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II and the deposed Emir, Alhaji Ado Bayero, have fuelled fears of clashes during traditional celebrations. The power tussle between both camps has created a charged atmosphere in the ancient city, prompting security agencies to act preemptively.
Sources familiar with recent developments disclosed that intelligence reports revealed attempts by miscreants and their alleged backers to exploit the traditional durbar to trigger unrest. These reports, according to the police, remain valid since similar threats emerged during the last Eid-el-Fitr celebration.
“The threats identified during the last Eid celebration, though subjected to stringent checks, are still considered potent, prompting the continuation of the ban,” the command added.
Security guidelines have now been rolled out for residents, with law enforcement officers directed to enforce all regulations without compromise. Parents and guardians were specifically advised to monitor their children and prevent them from being used by “subversive elements.”
“Members of the public are warned to desist from any act or conduct that may likely cause a breach of the peace or breakdown of law and order,” the police warned.
The command, while congratulating Muslims on the Eid celebrations, called on residents to celebrate peacefully and remain vigilant. It also urged for prayers for the state and for the families of athletes who recently lost their lives in a tragic road accident while returning from the National Sports Festival.
“As we celebrate this joyous occasion, let us pray for the state, the nation and the state’s athletes who lost their lives on their way back from the National Sports Festival,” the statement concluded.
The police have assured residents that security personnel will be fully deployed across the state to forestall any attempt to destabilise the peace during the festive period.
