Governor Dikko Umaru Radda has queried the State Emirate Council members over the absence of some district heads at the 2024 Idel-Kabir Hawan Sallah celebration.

In a letter signed by Sani Rabiu Jibia, Director of Administration and Supply, Office of Secretary to the Government of the State, Mr Radda demanded that the Emirates Council provide reasons for the district heads’ absence from the celebration.

The copy of the letter, with (Ref: S/SGRT/77/S2/T), dated June 27, was addressed to the secretary of the Katsina State Emirate Council.

“I am directed to refer to your letter on the above-underlined subject matter dated June 7 2024, and convey the directive of His Excellency, the governor, for you to provide reasons for non-participation of some of the district heads in the 2024 Idel-kabir Hawan Sallah celebration,” the letter read.

The query was in response to the council’s earlier communication dated June 7 on the subject of “Sanarwar Hawan Sallah Babba.”

Peoples Gazette learnt that the Hawan Sallah is an annual celebration at the culmination of the Muslim festivals Eid-el-Fitri and Eid al-Adha. It always begins with prayers and a parade of the emir and entourage on horses.

In Kastina, the event is magnificent and spectacular. The emir pays a visit to the governor at the Old Government House. The visit is followed by processions of horsemen to the public square in front of the emir’s palace, where the village groups, districts, and noble houses take their assigned place. This custom dates back to colonial times.

The celebration showcases the state’s cultural heritage and traditions by attracting tourists. It also parades the district heads and traditional title holders through the major streets of Kastina and Daura.