Kano govt demands compensation from FG over Durbar cancellation

The Kano State Government has called on on the Federal Government to provide financial compensation following the cancellation of the Durbar festival for the second year running, citing the significant economic impact on the state.

The appeal was made on Sunday by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs,  Tajo Uthman, during the traditional Sallah homage paid by Muhammadu Sanusi II, at the Government House.

Uthman lamented the economic blow caused by the suspension of the annual cultural celebration, which he described as a key driver of tourism and local commerce in Kano.

“Kano State has suffered huge financial losses due to the cancellation of the Durbar. It is more than just a cultural event—it is an economic driver,” Uthman stated. “It is high time we begin demanding reparation from the federal government for the losses incurred over the past two years.”

The Durbar, known for its vibrant equestrian displays, typically attracts thousands of attendees, including domestic and international visitors. Its absence, according to officials, has hit various sectors hard—from hospitality and transportation to small-scale vendors and artisans.

“When these tourists come, they stay in hotels, enjoy local dishes, watch the Durbar, and when their shoes get dusty, they pay someone to clean them. Some even buy snacks like Gurasa,” Uthman said. “These seemingly minor activities inject money into the economy. Now that the Durbar has been cancelled two years in a row, all of that revenue is gone.”

He further explained that anticipated revenue from Durbar activities had been factored into the state’s annual fiscal plans.

“We included these revenues in our annual budget. Now that we’ve lost them, we’ll need the Federal Government to step in and cover the gap,” he added.

The annual Durbar has been on hold in Kano since 2014, following a directive by the state police command. The suspension was aimed at preventing potential unrest tied to the longstanding emirship conflict between Muhammadu Sanusi II and  Emir Aminu Ado Bayero.