IGP DIRECTS FID OPERATIVES TO OBTAIN ALHAJI SANUSI’S STATEMENT IN KANO
NPF Withdraws Invitation Letter
The Nigeria Police Force has withdrawn its invitation to Alhaji Sanusi, a disputed Emir in Kano State, for questioning over a violent incident during the Sallah celebration on March 30, 2025. Instead, police operatives will obtain his statement in Kano as part of their investigation into the incident . The Force Police Public Relations Officer ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi has said in a statement released to counter the earlier invitation to Alhaji Sanusi.
The incident occurred when Alhaji Sanusi led a procession on horseback, defying an agreement with the police to preserve peace and public safety. This confrontation resulted in one death and several injuries.
The police had initially invited Alhaji Sanusi to provide his account of the events, but following advice from respected stakeholders, the invitation was withdrawn. The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has directed that operatives from the Force Intelligence Department (FID) proceed to Kano to obtain Alhaji Sanusi’s statement.
Prior to the Sallah Day celebration, the police had received credible intelligence that the two disputed Emirs in Kano State, Alhaji Ado Bayero and Alhaji Lamido Sanusi, were planning to hold separate Durbar Festivals. The Durbar Festival is a traditional event where an Emir rides on horseback around the city with his people.
To prevent possible violence, the police engaged in dialogue with the Emirs and the Kano State Government, and it was mutually agreed that no Durbar Festival would be held, and none of the disputed Emirs would ride on horseback on Sallah Day.
Police Commitment to Professionalism
The Nigeria Police Force remains committed to conducting its criminal investigation duties with professionalism, guided by the principles of justice, neutrality, and professionalism.
All individuals found culpable will be brought to justice, and some arrests have already been made in connection with the incident.
