For the first time in years, people in Kano State held three separate Eid-el-Fitr prayers, highlighting growing divisions among traditional rulers and political leaders.
The 16th Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, led the first prayer at Kofar Mata Eid Ground around 8 am.
Many government officials attended, including Governor Abba Yusuf, the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Faruq, and the Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Adamu Bakori.
A close associate of the Emir, Muhammad Dallatu, said, “The sermon focused on unity and peaceful coexistence in Kano.”
At roughly the same time, the 15th Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado Bayero, held another Eid prayer at the Nasarawa Palace. The prayer, led by Sheikh Kamaluddeen Albasa, also emphasised unity and peace.
The Emir’s spokesperson, Abubakar Balarabe Kofar Na’isa, said that top personalities attended the event, including Baffa Babba Dan Agundi and former SSG Usman Alhaji.
Meanwhile, Rabiu Kwankwaso, leader of the Kwankwasiyya Movement, held a third Eid prayer at his residence mosque along Miller Road.
He was joined by Deputy Governor Aminu Gwarzo and other supporters.
Kwankwaso’s media aide, Saifullahi Hassan, said, “The gathering was held in an atmosphere of unity, reflection, and gratitude to Allah.”
The separate prayers underscore ongoing tensions in Kano.
The situation dates back to the 2020 emirate crisis, when Sanusi II was removed, and Bayero was appointed Emir. In 2024, Sanusi was reinstated, resulting in two parallel royal authorities.
Political shifts have also intensified the division, particularly after Governor Yusuf moved from the New Nigeria Peoples Party to the All Progressives Congress.
In the past, Eid prayers in Kano were usually held together at Kofar Mata Eid Ground, bringing leaders and residents together.
