The Kano State Government has formally demanded compensation from the Federal Government over the cancellation of the Durbar celebrations for two consecutive years, citing significant economic losses and cultural disruption.
This demand was made on Sunday by Alhaji Tajo Uthman, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, during the traditional Sallah homage paid by the Emir of Kano, Alhaji Muhammadu Sanusi II, to Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf at the Government House.
Uthman decried the cancellation of the annual Durbar festival, describing it as a blow to Kano’s economy and heritage. He noted that the Durbar, which is recognized by UNESCO as a cultural heritage event, typically attracts thousands of local and international tourists, generating substantial revenue for the state.
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“For two years, Kano has suffered massive economic losses due to the suspension of the Durbar celebrations. This event is not just cultural; it is a major economic activity that boosts local businesses and tourism,” the commissioner said.
Uthman insisted that the federal government must take full responsibility for the economic consequences of the cancellations and provide adequate compensation to the state.
“The federal government must take responsibility for the economic impact of the cancellations and compensate the state accordingly,” he emphasized. “It is time we demanded reparation for the losses incurred.”
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He further called for the immediate resumption of the Durbar celebrations, describing the continued suspension as “regrettable” and detrimental to the state’s cultural pride and economic well-being.
While the specific reasons behind the federal government’s cancellation of the Durbar were not mentioned during the event, the call for reparations adds a new layer of tension between Kano State and the federal government.
The Durbar is usually held during major Muslim celebrations of Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha in Kano and other Northern states features colorful horse parades, traditional music, and displays of royal pageantry. It remains one of the most prominent cultural events in Northern Nigeria.