Police Reverse Course in Kano Royal Investigation After Political Pressure April 7, 2025

The Nigeria Police Force abruptly withdrew its summons for Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II to appear in Abuja for questioning over a deadly Sallah celebration clash, opting instead to send investigators to his Kano palace—a dramatic reversal reflecting the politically charged nature of the case.

Violence Mars Eid Celebration The controversy stems from a March 30 incident during Eid-el-Fitr prayers, when a traditional procession accompanying the 16th Emir of Kano turned violent. A vigilante member, Surajo Rabiu, was fatally stabbed, and another guard sustained injuries as crowds gathered despite a police ban on the annual Durbar horse parade. The Kano State Police Command had prohibited the cultural display citing security risks, but elements of the procession—including Emir Sanusi’s motorcade and horseback return to the palace—proceeded, drawing large crowds.

Abuja Summons Sparks Backlash On April 4, Commissioner of Police Olajide Ibitoye issued a formal directive requiring Sanusi to attend a 10:00 a.m. meeting on April 8 at the Force Intelligence Department (FID) headquarters in Abuja. The letter, authorized by Inspector General Kayode Egbetokun, cited the need to investigate the monarch’s role in the unrest.

The move drew immediate condemnation from civil society leaders and regional groups. Businessman Atedo Peterside and human rights scholar Chidi Odinkalu publicly criticized the summons as an overreach, while the Northern Youth Assembly warned against “politicizing traditional institutions”.

Investigation Relocated to Kano By April 6, police reversed course. A statement from Force spokesperson Muyiwa Adejobi confirmed the withdrawal, emphasizing the need to avoid “politicization” and announcing that FID operatives would instead take Sanusi’s statement in Kano. The decision followed intense behind-the-scenes negotiations, with sources indicating pressure from influential stakeholders.

Ongoing Probe and Arrests Kano police have arrested two suspects—20-year-old Usman Sagiru and 35-year-old Nasir Idris—in connection with the stabbing. Shamakin Kano Wada Isyaku, a senior palace official, has also been questioned. The FID emphasized that the investigation remains active, vowing to pursue “all individuals found culpable”.

Broader Implications The case highlights tensions between Nigeria’s federal authorities and regional power structures. Emir Sanusi, a former central bank governor known for reformist views, has previously clashed with political elites. Analysts suggest the initial Abuja summons may have aimed to assert federal oversight, while the retreat underscores the enduring influence of traditional leaders in northern Nigeria.

As investigators arrive in Kano, questions linger about whether the probe will address underlying security failures or focus narrowly on the palace’s adherence to the Durbar ban. With arrests already made, the case tests the police’s ability to navigate Nigeria’s complex interplay of culture, politics, and law enforcement.