Kano Government Restricts Durbar Processions, Horse-Riding Activities Over Security Concerns!

The Kano State Government has restricted all Durbar processions and horse-riding activities within the Kano metropolis, citing security concerns and the possibility of clashes among supporters mobilised for the planned activities.

The decision was reached by the Kano State Security Council following an emergency meeting at the Government House in Kano on Sunday, September 27, 2026, where officials reviewed the prevailing security situation surrounding the planned Durbar activities.

According to a statement issued by Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, Director-General, Media and Publicity at the Kano State Government House, security assessments indicated that a significant number of supporters had been mobilised for the planned processions.

The government said the level of mobilisation created concerns about possible confrontation, disruption of public order and potential damage to lives and property.

The State Security Council therefore directed the suspension of the planned Durbar processions and horse-riding activities across the Kano metropolis as a precautionary security measure.

The government explained that the restriction was intended to prevent possible clashes, preserve public peace and reduce the risk of loss of lives or destruction of property.

It also directed relevant security agencies to enforce the restriction throughout the affected areas and warned that anyone who violates the directive or engages in activities capable of threatening public peace would face appropriate lawful action.

The Kano State Government appealed to residents, traditional institutions, political actors, their supporters and other stakeholders to remain calm and comply with the directive.

It further urged all parties to maintain peace and avoid actions that could worsen tensions within the metropolis.

The latest restriction comes against the backdrop of recurring security concerns surrounding Kano’s Durbar celebrations in recent years, particularly amid tensions associated with the Kano emirate dispute.

The Durbar remains one of Kano’s most prominent traditional cultural institutions, featuring elaborately dressed horsemen, traditional rulers, musicians and large public gatherings during major Islamic celebrations. Its cultural importance extends beyond Kano, forming part of Nigeria’s wider traditional heritage and attracting significant public and visitor interest.

However, the large gatherings and competing processions have increasingly presented security and public-order challenges when political or traditional tensions are heightened.

In May 2026, the two rival Kano emirates associated with Muhammadu Sanusi II and Aminu Ado Bayero suspended planned Sallah Durbar processions after security agencies raised concerns about possible unrest.Security authorities were concerned that competing processions could create an opportunity for confrontation between supporters of the rival camps.

Earlier in 2025, Kano authorities also faced similar security concerns over Durbar activities. The Kano State Police Command announced restrictions on Durbar celebrations and horse-riding during the Eid period, citing intelligence reports and the need to prevent a possible breakdown of law and order.The police specifically prohibited horse riding, car racing and other activities considered capable of creating security risks.

The recurring restrictions highlight the difficult balance authorities face between protecting public safety and preserving one of northern Nigeria’s most recognisable cultural traditions.

For now, the Kano State Government says the latest measure is precautionary and focused on protecting lives, property and public order. The government has called on residents and stakeholders to cooperate with security agencies while the security situation is being managed.

The restriction remains in force until further notice, according to the state government’s latest announcement.

Kano State Government has restricted Durbar processions and horse-riding activities in Kano metropolis over concerns about possible clashes, public disorder, loss of lives and property damage.