Kano Police Reiterates Ban On Durbar, Horse-Riding Activities

The Kano State Police Command has reiterated that the ban on Durbar processions and all forms of horse and animal-riding activities in public places across the state remains in force.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, stated this on Friday, October 2, 2026, during a press briefing at the Bompai Police Headquarters, Kano.

LEADERSHIP reports his briefing came a day after Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II reportedly rode on horseback to the Sani Abacha Stadium to attend Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary celebration, despite the restriction imposed by the Kano State Government.

Reports said Sanusi initially left his palace in a vehicle but stopped at Kofar Mata, where he mounted a horse and rode to the stadium, before later returning to the palace on horseback.

The development prompted questions over the enforcement of the government’s directive, particularly amid the continuing dispute between the camps of Sanusi and the 15th Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado Bayero.

The Kano State Government had announced the restriction on September 27 following an emergency meeting of the State Security Council, citing concerns over possible confrontation, loss of lives and damage to property.

Against this backdrop, Bakori said the directive remained applicable to everyone in the state.

“The Kano State Police Command in conjunction with relevant Security Agencies in the State hereby reiterate, that these executive security directives so issued regarding the ban on Durbar/Horse-riding activities, are still in force and binding on all persons in the State, irrespective of status or position,” he said.

Bakori added that “the threats which necessitated the ban were put to serious checks and are still potent.”

He said maintaining public peace, safety and order remained the primary responsibility of law enforcement agencies.

“As you are aware, the primary responsibility of the Law Enforcement and Security Agencies is the maintenance of public peace, safety and order. We cannot afford to allow any act that will breach the peace and jeopardize public safety,” the commissioner said.

However, the police said the directive does not completely foreclose horse-riding or Durbar-related activities where organisers obtain prior security clearance.

Bakori announced that anyone, institution or organisation seeking to conduct a Durbar or horse/animal-riding activity in a public place must notify the police in writing at least 72 hours before the event.

“Any person, institution or organization that deems it very pertinent to undertake any form of Durbar, and/or Horse/Animal-Riding activity in public place in the State is required to give at least 72 hours prior notice in writing to the Kano State Police Command through the Office of the State Commissioner of Police,” he said.

According to him, the notice would allow security agencies to carry out the necessary security assessment and make adequate arrangements for public safety and order.

The commissioner urged all residents, traditional institutions and other stakeholders to comply with the directive and cooperate with security agencies.

He assured residents that the security agencies “remain resolute, united and committed to enforcing the law and safeguarding public peace and order in the state.”