The Nigeria Police Force has rescinded its initial summons to former Emir of Kano, Alhaji Lamido Sanusi, over the violent incident that occurred during the Eid celebrations in Kano on March 30, 2025. Instead, officers from the Force Intelligence Department (FID) have been directed to visit Kano and obtain his statement.
This change in approach was announced in a statement released on Sunday by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi. He explained that the decision followed consultations with key stakeholders and aligns with the Inspector-General of Police’s (IGP) commitment to ensuring that the investigation is not seen as politically driven.
“To avoid misinterpretation or politicization, the IGP has ordered the withdrawal of the letter inviting Alhaji Sanusi,” Adejobi said. “Instead, operatives from the FID will take his statement in Kano.”
Sanusi had been initially invited by the police to share his account of the events that led to a violent confrontation during the Sallah celebration, which claimed the life of one individual, identified as Usman Sagiru, and left several others injured.
According to the police, prior intelligence had indicated that both Sanusi and his rival, Alhaji Ado Bayero, intended to hold separate Durbar processions—a traditional ceremonial horse ride—raising concerns about potential clashes. In response, the IGP dispatched Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Abubakar Sadiq, to engage both camps and the Kano State government.
An agreement was reportedly reached that neither party would hold a Durbar or appear on horseback during the festivities. However, police say Sanusi arrived at the Eid ground by car but later mounted a horse, flanked by local vigilante personnel, which allegedly led to a confrontation with local youths and escalated into violence.
The police noted that this incident was precisely what they had hoped to prevent through earlier interventions. Several individuals have since been arrested, and investigations remain ongoing.
ACP Adejobi emphasized that the police are committed to handling the case with transparency, fairness, and objectivity.
“Our approach remains professional and neutral. We are focused on ensuring accountability and justice for all involved,” he added.
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