The National Forum of Kano Indigene Lawyers has condemned the recent ban on Sallah Durbar festivities across the four Kano Emirates, describing it as a violation of cultural and human rights protected under local and international laws.
In an open letter addressed to the Commissioner of Police, Kano State Command by the leader of the group, Barrister Usman Tudun-Wazirchi, the group also expressed gratitude to the police for maintaining relative peace during the period.
However, the lawyers criticised the decision to prohibit Durbar celebrations, describing it as āa denial of cultural rights and historical expression of identity recognised under the Nigerian law and international human rights conventions.
They also kicked against the police’s attempt to indict Emir Muhammadu Sanusi for an attack on the palace guards, where one of the vigilantes attached to the palace was killed.
According to the letter, although the by the Inspector General of Police inviting Emir Sanusi to appear at the Police Force Headquarters has been withdrawn, it said an attempt by the police to disrespect the traditional status of Hausa/ Fulani would have been resisted.
āWe appreciate the proactive security efforts during Sallah. Yet, the blanket ban contradicted the cultural freedoms of the people, including their rights to religion, expression, and celebration of heritage,” the lawyers said.
They further argued that the ban could be politically motivated, warning against using security concerns as a pretext to suppress Emir Sanusi II and others.
āThis appears more like political victimisation, especially when Durbar celebrations were allowed in more volatile regions,” the statement alleged.
They however urged the security agencies to uphold cultural rights of the people and ensure equitable treatment across Nigerian states, stressing that isolating Kano in such decisions undermines national unity and its historical pride.
