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Human rights lawyers decry ban on Kano Sallah Durbar
The National Forum of Kano Indigene Lawyers has condemned the recent ban on Sallah Durbar festivities across the four Kano Emirates, arguing that it violates cultural and human rights protected under both national and international law.
The lawyers argued that the ban ignored the cultural significance of Durbar celebrations, which involve horse-riding processions and royal displays recognized under Nigerian law and international human rights conventions such as the African Charter and the ICCPR.
After submitting an open letter to the Commissioner of Police for the Kano State Command, the leader of the group, Barr. Usman Imam Tudun Wazirchi, expressed appreciation for the police’s efforts in maintaining relative peace during the Sallah period. However, they criticized the decision to prohibit Durbar celebrations, calling it “a denial of cultural rights and historical expression of identity.
Usman Esq. who signed the letter on behalf of the group noted that “We appreciate the proactive security efforts during Sallah. Yet, the blanket ban contradicted the cultural freedoms of the people, including their rights to religion, expression, and celebration of heritage.”
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