In a dramatic turn of events, the Nigerian police have retracted a controversial summons issued to the revered emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi, following widespread public condemnation. The decision has ignited discussions nationwide, highlighting the potent influence of traditional institutions in Nigerian society.

The emir's tensions with his cousin, Aminu Ado Bayero—who has the backing of the national government—have intensified recently. As Nigeria prepared to celebrate Eid al-Fitr, authorities in Kano took the precautionary step of banning the highly anticipated annual horse parade, known as the durbar, due to concerns of potential violence between conflicting supporter factions.

In a bold move, however, Emir Sanusi opted to participate in the celebrations, riding on horseback after the Eid prayers, accompanied by local vigilantes. This decision led to violent confrontations that resulted in the tragic stabbing death of a supporter, prompting the police to summon Sanusi to appear at the national police headquarters in Abuja.

The issuance of the summons triggered an outcry across Nigeria, with critics arguing it demonstrated a profound disrespect for an institution that remains integral to the country’s cultural heritage. Traditional leaders, while lacking formal constitutional power, wield significant influence as custodians of deep-rooted religious and societal traditions.

In light of the backlash, Nigeria's police chief announced a change in strategy. Instead of requiring Sanusi's presence in Abuja, officers will now travel to Kano to take his statement, a decision that reflects the pressure from "respected stakeholders" advocating for the emirate's dignity.

Emir Sanusi has yet to publicly address the summons. His reinstatement to the Kano throne last year followed a controversial ousting in 2020, when he was removed for "insubordination" to the then Kano state government led by Abdullahi Ganduje. Sanusi’s return came courtesy of Kano’s current Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, who reappointed him in May, while Bayero was dismissed after holding the emirate for four years.

Despite Sanusi's resumption of duties from the emir's official residence, the dispute over the rightful claim to the throne continues, as Bayero's supporters pursue legal action asserting his legitimacy as emir. In a curious development, while Sanusi has taken his place within the traditional hierarchy, Bayero remains in one of the emirate's smaller palaces, a physical embodiment of the ongoing power struggle within Kano's storied royal lineage.