The Ilorin Emirate Durbar Committee has clarified its position regarding the proposed pavilion at the forecourt of the Emir’s Palace, emphasising that the project was originally initiated by the committee to enhance both the safety and aesthetics of the annual Durbar celebration.
In a statement signed by the committee chairman, Engr. Suleiman Yahaya, the Danmasani of Ilorin, the committee explained that the pavilion was designed to reduce costs, strengthen security, and elevate the standard of royal ceremonies held within the palace grounds.
Yahaya disclosed that consultations had previously taken place with relevant stakeholders, including the state governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, who had offered “valuable suggestions” on refining the initial design to better fulfil its intended purpose.
However, the committee expressed surprise at the unveiling of a different pavilion design on 25 December 2024, during the Ilorin Emirate Descendants Progressive Union (IEDPU) National Conference by a representative of Senator Saliu Mustapha, the Turaki of Ilorin.
“The Durbar Committee was unaware of the new pavilion design until it was revealed at the IEDPU event.
“This new design deviates from our original architectural and structural plans, which were already undergoing review with the governor’s input,” the statement noted.
While acknowledging the interest shown by Senator Mustapha and other stakeholders, the committee appealed for understanding and urged restraint to ensure an amicable resolution.
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“In the interest of unity and respect for the esteemed throne of Sheikh Alimi, we call for a suspension of public discourse surrounding the pavilion project,” Yahaya stated.
He reaffirmed the committee’s commitment to due process and declared that it would abide by the decision of the state government in accordance with building regulations and environmental standards.
“We fully recognise the government’s statutory responsibility in safeguarding public safety and stand ready to comply with its final directive concerning the pavilion,” he added.
The statement also praised Governor AbdulRazaq for his unwavering support of the Ilorin Durbar and other cultural initiatives, describing him as the principal sponsor of the festivities over the past six years.
The Durbar Committee further expressed gratitude to the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, for his guidance and dedication to the rule of law, and acknowledged the contributions of other traditional titleholders, indigenes, and friends of the Emirate.
Held annually during the Eid-el-Kabir festivities, the Ilorin Durbar is one of Kwara State’s most prominent cultural events, drawing participants and dignitaries from across Nigeria and beyond.
