BY ABDULSALAM MUHAMMAD

KANO – Emir of Kano, Alhaji Ado Bayero, yesterday, defied Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso’s  order cancelling the Eid-el-Fitri durbar over his (Emir’s) failing health.

The  emir celebrated the age-long event, even as crisis of succession has already started in the emirate.

Vanguard learnt that Emir Bayero ignored Kwankwaso’s directive in a bid to douse the tension being generated as eligible princes had started lobbying to take over even before the demise of the octogenarian who ascended the throne  48 years ago.

The emir ordered the release of several horses for the traditional Hawan Daushe.

Kwankwaso, had through Commissioner for Information, Dr Faruk Jibril, cancelled the durbar (horse race) that was usually led by the emir (on horse back) while visiting several historical quarters within Kano metropolis accompanied by other traditional title holders and retinue of palace guards and well-wishers.

Briefing newsmen over the emir’s action, a senior  councellor at the palace, Abbas Sanusi said, ‘’The Emirate is going ahead with the traditional durbar in fulfillment of the age-long tradition.’’

Sanusi, who was, however, silent on the health condition of the emir, said ‘’unlike the past, this year’s events will see the emir leading the horse race on Wednesday evening and Saturday (Hawan Dorayi).’’

Sanusi who heads the administrative wing of the palace said contrary to the tradition, the Emir had cancelled Hawan Nasarawa, adding that, instead Governor Kwankwaso will be at the palace to pay the traditional homage to the emir.

Meanwhile, the state government has beefed up security at strategic locations within the metropolis,  especially at the eastern gates of the palace.