The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has officially summoned the 16th Emir of Kano, Muhammad Sanusi II, for questioning over the violent incident that occurred during the recent Eid-el-Fitr procession in Kano, which led to the death of a local vigilante member. According to LEADERSHIP, the invitation follows a fatal clash that erupted as the Emir’s convoy made its way from the Eid prayer ground to the palace in a traditional procession. The violence disrupted the otherwise peaceful celebration, resulting in the death of Surajo Rabiu, a vigilante member, and injuring another person.
The police invitation was issued in a letter dated April 4, 2025, signed by Commissioner of Police Olajide Rufus Ibitoye on behalf of the Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Force Intelligence Department (FID), Abuja. The letter stated: “I have the directives of the Inspector General of Police, through the Deputy Inspector General of Police, Force Intelligence Department (FID), to invite you for an investigative meeting with regards to an incident that occurred during the Sallah celebration within your domain.”
The Emir is expected to appear at the Force Intelligence Department in Abuja, located opposite the Police Headquarters, Area 11, by 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, April 8, 2025.
This development comes amid rising tension in Kano State, following the State Police Command’s earlier decision to cancel the annual Durbar festival due to security concerns. Despite the ban, a motorcade procession featuring Emir Sanusi II was still held on the third day of the Eid-el-Fitr festivities.
In response to the incident, Kano State Police Commissioner Ibrahim Adamu Bakori established an eight-member Special Investigation Panel (SIP) to probe the violence. As of the time of this report, Emir Sanusi II’s palace has not issued any official statement regarding the police invitation.