The Kano State Police Command has announced the suspension of the annual Tashe festivities traditionally held during the month of Ramadan, citing security concerns.
Tashe, a popular cultural practice in Kano, is known for its colourful street performances featuring costumed children and youths who entertain residents at night with music, dance and satire rooted in Hausa tradition.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the Police Public Relations Officer, Abdullahi Kiyawa, said the decision was taken after consultations with the Kano State Government to forestall possible security breaches during the fasting period.
“The Command wishes to notify members of the public that the annual Tashe activities usually observed during Ramadan have been suspended in the interest of maintaining public safety,” the statement read.
According to the police, intelligence reports indicated that some criminal elements often exploit the gatherings associated with Tashe to perpetrate crimes.
“This action, taken in collaboration with the Kano State Government, is aimed at preventing hoodlums from using the occasion to engage in thuggery, phone snatching and drug-related offences,” the statement added.
“Adequate security arrangements have been put in place to ensure residents observe a peaceful Ramadan.”
The Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Bakori, called on parents and guardians to caution their children against acts capable of disrupting public order.
“He appeals to parents and guardians to warn their wards against any behaviour that could threaten the peace of the state. Anyone found contravening the law will be dealt with accordingly,” Kiyawa quoted the commissioner as saying.
The command further extended Ramadan greetings to residents and urged members of the public to cooperate with security agencies, assuring that emergency lines remain open for prompt response throughout the holy month.
