Fear grips Kano as feuding Emirs reveal plans for Jumaat

Tensions have risen in the ancient city of Kano as the two rival Emirs, reinstated Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II and dethroned Emir Aminu Ado Bayero, have both announced their intentions to lead the Jumaat prayers at the Palace Central Mosque.

Emir Malam Muhammadu Sanusi II, who resides in the palace and is geographically closer to the contested mosque, is expected to lead the two-rakat Friday prayers. Traditionally, Emir Sanusi II has been at the forefront of leading the Jumaat prayers at the Palace Central Mosque as the Amir of the City.

A statement released Thursday night by Danburan Kano, Munir Sanusi Bayero, confirmed Emir Sanusi II’s plans to proceed to the mosque to lead the prayers. The statement also invited Kano residents to attend and listen to the sermon delivered by Emir Sanusi II.

Conversely, an aide of the deposed Emir Aminu Ado Bayero issued a separate statement urging residents to join Bayero at the Emir’s Palace Friday Mosque for the Juma’at prayer, with the movement to the mosque scheduled to commence at 12:30 PM.

As of now, the police have not commented on the unfolding situation.