Inspector‑General of Police Kayode Egbetokun has ordered the withdrawal of a summons issued to the 16th Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, over a Sallah‑day procession that escalated into violence.
Initially asked to appear at the Force Intelligence Department in Abuja on April 8, the Emir’s invitation was rescinded following stakeholder engagement and a directive for discreet statement-taking in Kano.
The IGP’s decision, communicated by Police spokesman Olumuyiwa Adejobi, aligns with efforts to prevent the politicization of security actions. Earlier, DIG Abubakar Sadiq had mediated between the two claimants to the Kano throne—Emirs Ado Bayero and Sanusi—to avert parallel Durbar celebrations.
Despite an agreement to forgo horse‑riding processions, Sanusi’s mounted appearance with vigilantes triggered clashes that left one dead and several injured.
Adejobi affirmed that arrests have been made and investigations will proceed impartially. Critics, including civil society groups, had questioned the necessity of summoning the Emir, fearing it might heighten tensions.
The IGP’s recalibration reflects a balance between upholding public order and respecting traditional institutions in politically sensitive contexts.
