Fresh Tension In Kano As Sanusi Rides Horse Despite Government Ban

Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II rode on horseback to the Sani Abacha Stadium in Kano for Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary celebration, despite a state government directive restricting horse-riding activities and Durbar processions within the metropolis.

The Kano State Government announced the restriction on September 27 following a security council meeting, saying the measure was intended to prevent possible confrontations and maintain public order amid activities involving supporters of the two claimants to the Kano Emirate throne.

According to Bush Radio Academy, Sanusi initially travelled from his palace in a vehicle but reportedly stopped at Kofar Mata, where he mounted a horse and continued his journey to the Sani Abacha Stadium. He later returned to the palace on horseback after the Independence Day event, with supporters reportedly cheering along the route.

The development has drawn a reaction from the camp of the 15th Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado Bayero, with Sarkin Dawaki Babba, Aminu Babba Dan’agundi, questioning what action the state government would take over what the camp viewed as a breach of the restriction.

Dan’agundi said supporters of Emir Bayero were waiting for the monarch, who was reportedly out of town, to return before deciding on their next course of action.

He added that if the government’s restriction was intended to apply to all traditional rulers, the Bayero camp could also consider organising a horse-riding procession after consulting with the 15th Emir.

According to him, the proposed procession would be connected to a Qur’anic graduation ceremony in Yakasai that had previously been affected by the government’s restriction. He said further details, including the date and time, would be announced after Bayero’s return and consultations with members of his council.

The dispute comes amid the continuing disagreement over the Kano Emirate stool. Sanusi currently operates from the main Gidan Rumfa palace with the backing of the Kano State Government, while Bayero maintains a separate base at the Nassarawa mini-palace and continues to challenge the changes to the emirate structure in court.

The Kano State Government had said its September 27 restriction was introduced as a precautionary security measure following concerns about the mobilisation of supporters and the possibility of clashes. It directed security agencies to enforce the restriction and take lawful action against violations.