The Kano State Government has suspended all Durbar processions and horse-riding activities within the metropolis indefinitely over concerns about possible clashes and a breakdown of law and order.
The directive followed an emergency meeting of the State Security Council held at the Government House, Kano, where the security situation surrounding planned Durbar activities was reviewed.
The government announced the restriction in a statement issued on Sunday by the Director-General, Media and Publicity, Government House, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa.
According to the statement, the council took the decision as a precautionary measure following security assessments indicating significant mobilisation of supporters in connection with the planned activities.
The government said the mobilisation had raised concerns about possible confrontation, loss of lives and destruction of property.
“In view of its constitutional responsibility to safeguard lives and property and maintain peace and public order, the State Security Council directed that the planned Durbar processions and horse-riding activities be suspended,” the statement said.
The restriction covers all forms of Durbar processions and horse-riding activities within the Kano metropolis and will remain in force until further notice.
The state government said the decision was taken to prevent a possible escalation of tension and preserve public order.
It subsequently directed all relevant security agencies in the state to enforce the restriction and take appropriate lawful action against anyone found violating the directive.
The agencies were also directed to act against individuals or groups whose conduct could threaten public peace and security.
The government urged residents, traditional institutions, political actors, their supporters and other stakeholders to remain calm and comply with the directive.
It also appealed to members of the public to avoid actions capable of heightening tension or undermining efforts to maintain peace in the metropolis.
“The Government assures the people of Kano State that all necessary measures are being taken to protect lives and property and maintain peace and public order across the state,” the statement added.
The latest directive comes amid renewed attention to Durbar activities in Kano, where traditional horse processions have previously been affected by security concerns and tensions surrounding the Kano emirate institution.
Durbar processions are traditionally associated with the emirate institution and involve horse-riding displays by the Emir and his entourage. The Kano Durbar is also recognised as part of Nigeria’s cultural heritage.
The state government did not specify the particular planned Durbar procession or activities that prompted the emergency security review, nor did it disclose details of the intelligence or security assessments that informed the decision.
The restriction means that traditional and other stakeholders involved in the planned activities are expected to suspend such processions and horse-riding activities within the affected area pending further directives from the government.
The government maintained that the primary objective of the measure was to prevent confrontation and ensure the safety of residents and protection of property.
West Trybe reports that the suspension places the security situation around planned Durbar activities at the centre of the latest decision by the Kano State Government, with the authorities relying on security enforcement and cooperation from traditional institutions, political actors and residents to prevent any disruption of public order.
