The 2025 Eid-el-Kabir celebration in Kano State unfolded amid controversy, as two rival monarchs—Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero and Khalifa Muhammadu Sanusi II—led separate Eid prayers in a deepening power struggle over the Emir of Kano throne.
One City, Two Emirs, Parallel Prayers
Alhaji Ado Bayero, who was dethroned in May but later secured a court order for reinstatement, led Eid prayers at the Nassarawa mini palace. The area was heavily guarded, and the sermon was delivered by Sarkin Malamai, Malam Kamalu Inuwa. He urged worshippers to uphold sacrifice, patience, and unity—core values exemplified by Prophet Ibrahim (AS).
At the same time, Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II, reinstated by the Kano State Government, led a large congregation at the Kofar Mata Central Eid Ground. He was joined by Deputy Governor Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo, state cabinet members, and senior traditional titleholders.
In his sermon, Sanusi addressed the growing challenge of insecurity in Kano, specifically the surge in youth gang violence.
“We must not allow violence and disunity to destroy the legacy of peace our forebears left us,” he said.
“A good upbringing begins at home. Parents must take responsibility in steering their children away from crime.”
Calm Celebrations, Underlying Strain
Despite the divided leadership and heightened political tensions, the Eid festivities across Kano remained peaceful. Security personnel were visibly deployed at major prayer locations to prevent disruptions and ensure safety.
The parallel prayer sessions reflect the unresolved leadership crisis gripping the historic Kano Emirate. With legal battles ongoing and political interests at play, the emirship dispute continues to blur the lines between traditional authority and state power.
Analysts caution that without a clear and lasting resolution, the emirship impasse could erode confidence in the emirate institution and threaten its long-standing role as a unifying symbol in Kano.
