Atedo Peterside, prominent businessman and founder of Stanbic IBTC, has criticised the Nigeria Police Force for summoning the Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, to Abuja over an alleged murder during last Sunday’s Eid-el-Fitr celebrations in Kano.

In a post on his official X account on Sunday, Peterside questioned the rationale behind inviting the traditional ruler, describing the action as unnecessary and an act of harassment.

“What is @PoliceNG trying to turn Nigeria into? Has Nigeria become a Police State?” he asked. “Is there any question that the Commissioner of Police cannot legitimately ask the Emir of Kano in Kano on behalf of his Abuja bosses? Invitations across State boundaries are a form of ‘harassment’ and should be discouraged in the 21st Century.”

Peterside’s comment followed reports that the Emir was summoned to appear at the Force Intelligence Department headquarters in Abuja on April 8 by 10 a.m. over a killing that occurred during his Sallah procession in Kano.

Read also: Kano celebrates Eid with prayers led by Sanusi, Bayero

The invitation came via a letter dated April 4 and signed by Olajide Ibitoye, a commissioner of Police in charge of Operations. It was issued on the orders of the Inspector-General of Police.

According to reports, the violence broke out shortly after the Emir returned from Eid prayers. While he had gone to the prayer ground on foot, he rode back to the palace on horseback in a traditional procession that defied a prior ban on the annual durbar celebration.

The procession reportedly turned chaotic when some individuals in the crowd threw sachets of water at the Emir’s entourage, prompting a clash. Security operatives quickly intervened and fired teargas to disperse the crowd. One person was reportedly killed in the melee.

Prior to the Emir’s invitation, the police had summoned one of his senior aides, Wada Isyaku, who holds the title of ‘Shamakin Kano,’ over his role in the controversial procession.

Authorities said the durbar had been prohibited to ensure a peaceful celebration and maintain public order.

Sanusi’s invitation has drawn criticism from political commentators who see it as an overreach of federal authority and a potential politicisation of law enforcement.