Abuja, April 6, 2025 – The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered operatives of the Force Intelligence Department (FID) to proceed to Kano and obtain a statement from Alhaji Lamido Sanusi in connection with the disturbance that occurred during the Sallah celebration on March 30, 2025.
In a press statement obtained by ABNews on the official Twitter handle of the Nigeria Police, this directive follows the withdrawal of an earlier invitation extended to Alhaji Sanusi by the Nigeria Police Force. The invitation, initially intended to allow Sanusi to present his account regarding the breach of peace in Kano, was rescinded following consultations with key stakeholders. The move, according to the Force Headquarters, is aimed at preventing any misinterpretation or politicization of police actions.
The police had earlier received credible intelligence that the two disputed Emirs in Kano – Alhaji Ado Bayero and Alhaji Lamido Sanusi – were planning to hold separate Durbar Festivals during Sallah. In a bid to forestall possible unrest, the IGP deployed the Coordinating Deputy Inspector-General of Police for the North-West, DIG Abubakar Sadiq, to mediate with both parties and the state government. An agreement was reached that neither Emir would participate in the Durbar procession.
However, in defiance of the agreement, Alhaji Sanusi, after attending Eid prayers in a car, mounted a horse in a post-prayer procession, reportedly accompanied by local vigilantes. The act led to a confrontation with some youths, resulting in the death of one Usman Sagiru and injuries to several others — an outcome the Police had sought to avert.
The Force emphasized that its investigation into the incident is ongoing, with several arrests already made. It assured the public that all parties found culpable will face justice.
“The Nigeria Police Force remains committed to neutrality, professionalism, and justice,” said Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi.
The investigation continues as FID operatives engage Alhaji Sanusi in Kano.
