Introduction: A Shift in the Saddle
For many decades until now, the Kano Durbar reigned supreme as the most iconic equestrian festival in Nigeria. Steeped in centuries of tradition and royal pageantry, it was the cultural heartbeat of Northern Nigeria.
However, a power tussle in 2024 and 2025 between the reinstated Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II and his cousin, Emir Aminu Ado Bayero, who was dethroned, has halted the celebrated festival, casting uncertainty over its future. Ironically, this disruption has allowed other Durbar celebrations in Jigawa State (Northwest Nigeria) and Ilorin (North Central Nigeria) to step into the spotlight, showcasing their own unique heritage and rich pageantry to the nation — and the world at large.
Kano Durbar: A Royal Spectacle Interrupted
The Kano Durbar has historically been a majestic convergence of faith, tradition, and power. Timed around Islamic festivities like Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, it brings together thousands of horsemen, palace guards, title holders, musicians, and cultural performers in a grand show of loyalty to the Emir.
Notably, the Kano Durbar is distinguished by the Hawan Daushe and Hawan Nasarawa processions, drummers on dromedaries who only perform in front of the Emir, the presence of the Hyena Men — mystical performers whose acts blend folklore with danger and richly adorned horses and elite warriors parading in regalia dating back to the days of the Sokoto Caliphate. All these and many more attracted Kano indigenes, Nigerians, and International tourists to experience the Northern warmth and cultural splendours.
However, the 2024 and 2025 editions suffered setbacks due to the ongoing royal dispute between Muhammadu Sanusi II and Aminu Ado Bayero. The Police and residents of Kano believed that a royal dispute may bring about an altercation or riots between the loyalists of the two Emirs, which may further lead to chaos and worsen the silent crisis. With the Durbar festival suspended in Kano, attention has turned to other regions where the Durbar continues to thrive.