The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has withdrawn the invitation earlier extended to the Emir of Kano, Alhaji Muhammadu Sanusi, following a fatal incident that occurred during the Eid-el-Fitr celebrations in Kano.
The police had on Friday invited the Emir to appear at Force Headquarters in Abuja to clarify his role in the events of March 30, 2025, which led to the death of one individual and left several others injured.
However, in a statement issued on Sunday, police spokesperson ACP Muyiwa Adejobi announced that the invitation had been rescinded. He explained that the decision was made after consultations with respected stakeholders and to ensure that the Force’s actions are not politicized or misinterpreted.
“Instead,” the statement noted, “operatives from the Force Intelligence Department (FID) have been directed by the IGP to proceed to Kano to obtain Alhaji Sanusi’s statement.”
The police reaffirmed their commitment to impartial investigations, stating that several arrests have already been made and that everyone found culpable will be held accountable.
Ahead of the Sallah celebrations, the police had received credible intelligence indicating that both claimants to the Kano Emirship—Alhaji Ado Bayero and Alhaji Sanusi—were planning to stage separate Durbar festivals, a move seen as potentially inflammatory. In response, the IGP dispatched DIG Abubakar Sadiq to mediate between the parties and the Kano State Government. An agreement was reached that neither faction would conduct a Durbar procession or mount horses on Sallah day.
Despite this consensus, Alhaji Sanusi, after attending Eid prayers in his car, reportedly mounted a horse and led a procession through the city, accompanied by local vigilantes. This action allegedly sparked a confrontation with local youths, resulting in the tragic death of Usman Sagiru.
The Nigeria Police Force emphasized that its investigations are being conducted professionally and in line with the principles of justice and neutrality. “The Force remains committed to uncovering the truth and ensuring justice is served,” Adejobi concluded.