The Nigerian Police Force (NPF) has increasingly been seen as a tool for political manipulation, rather than a professional institution dedicated to upholding law and order. This disturbing trend is evident in the events surrounding the Kano emirate crises, where the police’s decisions have not only raised questions about their credibility but also revealed the extent to which the force has been politicized. A prime example of this is today’s suspension of the upcoming Durbar festival in Kano, an event that has been part of the state’s rich cultural and religious history for centuries. The police’s actions highlight a disturbing pattern of unsubstantiated claims, political interference, and a growing loss of public trust.
In January 2025, the police made headlines when they purportedly “uncovered” an alleged terrorist plot targeting public gatherings in Kano, including the National Tijjaniyya Maulud. The police acted swiftly, suspending the Maulud, an annual event celebrating the life of Sheikh Ibrahim Inyass, one of West Africa’s most revered Islamic scholars. The move was justified by the police on the grounds of ensuring public safety, citing their concerns over security threats. However, despite the police’s alarming warnings and the disruption caused by their actions, the Maulud went ahead without incident. The event was held successfully, without any signs of terrorist activity, thereby calling into question the police’s initial reports and the motives behind their heavy-handed response.
The incident exposed a glaring issue within the police force: the increasing politicization of its operations. The notion that the police were acting on political instructions, rather than based on solid intelligence, was not lost on the people of Kano. The failure to provide any concrete evidence of the alleged threats made the police’s actions seem more like a calculated move to placate political interests, rather than a legitimate effort to safeguard public security. The fact that the event proceeded without incident only fueled suspicions about the integrity of the police’s motives. It became clear that the police were not simply acting out of a sense of duty but were instead being steered by external political forces with agendas of their own.
Fast forward to today, and the same trend appears to be repeating itself. Commissioner of Police Ibrahim Bakori announced a ban on the upcoming Durbar festival coinciding with Eid-El-Fitr celebrations. Just as with the Maulud, the police pointed to intelligence reports indicating that certain elements planned to disrupt the event, thus justifying the suspension. Since this event is not just a cultural festival; it is a symbol of the Emir’s authority and the unity of the people of Kano, the thumbprints of some politicians is visibly clear to stop Sanusi from conducting this years procession.
What is even more troubling is the fact that these actions are being carried out under the direction of certain impulsive individuals in the state, who seem bent on using the police and other security agencies for their own purposes. The idea that those with political influence in Kano can manipulate the police to suppress cultural and religious events that they deem politically inconvenient is a worrying trend. Those who believe they can use their influence to sow discord and division should not forget that their power is fleeting. Politics is a dynamic and ever-changing landscape, and the influence they wield today could be gone tomorrow, replaced by a loss of political relevance or worse, death!
One must look to the example set by the current reinstated Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, to see how true maturity and influence should be wielded. When Sanusi was dethroned in 2020, he did not engage in impulsive actions or petty political games. Instead, he chose to focus on his personal growth and professional pursuits, and also by aligning himself with those who mattered in the political landscape. Sanusi’s strategic alliances helped ensure his eventual reinstatement as Emir, a testament to his wisdom and restraint. His actions exemplified maturity and showcases a leader who understood the importance of long-term planning and the futility of allowing political pressures to dictate one’s actions.
In contrast, the dethroned 15th Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado Bayero, appears to have allowed himself to become entangled in the schemes of those with political agendas. Unlike Sanusi, who handled his dethronement with dignity, Bayero seems to have been swayed by individuals with impulsive and reckless approaches to governance. This is not leadership; it is a clear sign of political immaturity. Bayero’s involvement in the current crisis, and his willingness to align with those seeking to use the police as a political tool, is not just a failure of leadership; it is a failure of civility. It is a shame that the prince of the Dabo dynasty which associated with wisdom and strength, is being dragged into the mud of political gamesmanship.
The actions of the police in Kano serve as a stark reminder of the deepening crisis of credibility within the Nigerian Police Force. Their increasing politicization has eroded the trust of the public. If the police continue to allow themselves to be manipulated by political interests, they risk losing not only their credibility but their relevance in the eyes of the Nigerian people.
