The Kano State Police Command has reaffirmed its restriction on all Durbar activities as preparations begin for the 2025 Eid-el-Kabir celebrations. This announcement was made in a public statement issued on June 3, 2025, in collaboration with other security agencies operating in the state.
According to the statement released by the command's Police Public Relations Officer, SP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa, the restriction initially imposed during the Eid-el-Fitr celebrations earlier in 2025 remains in effect due to credible intelligence about potential security threats.
Security Concerns Behind the Decision
The police highlighted that certain individuals and their sponsors were allegedly planning to use the Durbar festivities to disrupt peace and security in the state. "The Command therefore reiterates that the ban on all forms of Durbar in the state is still in force and will be strictly enforced during this 2025 Eid-el-Kabir celebration, as the threats which have been put to serious checks are still potent," the statement emphasized.
While extending warm wishes to Muslim faithful and law-abiding residents for a peaceful Sallah celebration, the Command assured that adequate public order measures have been implemented to ensure safety throughout the festive period.
Specific Prohibited Activities
The police outlined several specific activities that remain prohibited during the celebrations:
No horse or animal riding of any kind (Kilisa)
No car racing, reckless, or dangerous driving
No unlawful possession or reckless display of firearms or weapons
No carrying of unnecessary or dangerous objects that may trigger suspicion
Parents and guardians were also advised to monitor their children and wards to prevent them from being exploited by subversive elements during the celebrations.
Contrasting Directives
The police announcement comes shortly after the 16th Emir of Kano, Muhammad Sanusi II, reportedly instructed his district heads to begin preparations for the Eid-el-Kabir (Babbar Sallah) Durbar celebrations, creating a potential conflict between traditional authorities and security agencies.
The Command concluded its statement by encouraging residents to use the festive period to pray for Kano State, Nigeria, and to remember the Kano athletes who lost their lives while returning from the National Sports Festival.
Security agencies have emphasized their readiness to strictly enforce these measures and warned the public against any actions that could breach peace during the celebrations.
