Kano's Modern Sallah Tradition: Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II Adapts To Security Protocols

Scope 03 Apr 2025

Emir Sanusi II Rethinks Tradition in the Name of Safety

Hey there, friends. Let me tell you something interesting. In a bid to keep everyone safe, the 16th Fulani Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, decided to tweak the traditional Sallah Emir’s Durbar activities this year. Instead of going full-on with the usual horse parade, he chose a modernized way to honor the Sallah celebration. This move came after security protocols advised against public horse riding for the sake of public safety.

A New Route, A New Way

Now, you might be wondering, what exactly changed? Well, let me break it down. Instead of hopping on his trusty steed and riding through the bustling streets of Kano, the Emir opted for a convoy of vehicles. He paid his respects to Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf at the Government House, all while adhering to the new security measures. This shift not only ensured the safety of the public but also kept the spirit of the celebration alive in a different, yet meaningful way.

History Behind the Hawan Nassarwa

But let’s take a step back and understand where this tradition comes from. Professor Tijjani Naniya, a renowned historian and former Head of the Department of History at Bayero University, Kano, shared some fascinating insights with Daily Post. Before 1940, the Emir's visit to the Resident at the Government House was a simple affair. No grand parades, no massive crowds—just a straightforward visit to discuss the happenings of the city, followed by a return to the palace.

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It wasn’t until 1940, when Wajen Kano, the outskirts of the city, was established, that things began to change. As more people, mainly Hausas from outside Kano, settled in the area, the Emir felt the need to connect with them. This is when the modern-day Hawan Nassarwa, featuring horses, was introduced. It became a vibrant way for the Emir to ride through the city, greet the citizens, and foster a sense of unity.

Security Measures and Tradition: Striking a Balance

Fast forward to today, and we see the Emir adapting once again. Professor Naniya explained that the police prohibition specifically targeted horse processions on public roads, but using vehicles for the homage didn’t violate the security ban. In fact, it was perfectly in line with the expectations set forth. The Emir, by choosing cars over horses, managed to respect both tradition and modern security protocols.

As Naniya put it, “What was stopped was for the Emir to ride on horses and pass through state roads, which would definitely create problems. But now that he has returned to the original means of the Hawan Nassarwa tradition, there is no violation.”

This time, the Emir’s journey to the Government House was kept minimal, with just a few cars in the procession. No large crowds, no extensive motorcades—just a simple and safe event that honored the spirit of the festivities.

Sanusi's Thoughtful Approach

Professor Naniya concluded by saying, “Sanusi has avoided large crowds and escorts, instead simply driving his few cars to the Government House in the 1903 Traditional Sallah festivities.” This thoughtful approach reflects the Emir's commitment to preserving tradition while prioritizing the safety of his people.

In the end, it’s all about finding that balance. Tradition is important, yes, but so is the well-being of everyone involved. And by making these adjustments, Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II has shown that it’s possible to honor the past while embracing the needs of the present. Cheers to that!