The ancient city of Kano has returned to its bustling but peaceful nature as the 16th Emir of Kano Lamido Sanusi and his predecessor Aminu Bayero did not clash during Juma’at prayer.
Governor Abba Yusuf, had through a repealed chieftaincy law, dethroned Bayero and four other first class emirs and reinstated Sanusi. But Bayero returned to the state to reclaim his position.
While Sanusi is consolidating on the throne, having occupied the main palace, Bayero is waiting anxiously for the decision of the court as he now stays at the Nasarawa palace.
Tension rose on Friday morning that the two contending emirs had made announcements to lead the Juma’at service at the Central Mosque located at the main palace.
The people of Kano, divided, were bracing up for the clash that would not be.
It was gathered it was all rumours as Bayero later denied announcing he would lead prayers at the central mosque close to the palace where Sanusi is staying.
Before the prayer time, police advised residents to “disregard the false information circulating on social media that Emir Aminu Ado Bayero will lead Juma’t Prayers at Kofar Kudu Central Mosque, Kano.”
Commissioner of Police, Mohammed Gumel, assured that all necessary security arrangements were made for Bayero to observe his Friday prayers in the mosque where he lives at the Nasarawa palace.
Gumel also assured that the police and all other state security agencies would provide adequate security at the palace where Lamido Sanusi, also known as Muhammadu Sanusi II, was expected to observe his Juma’at prayers.
“Members of the public are therefore advised to ignore the false reports and misinformation circulating on social media and to go about their activities without fear of molestation or intimidation.
“The police will continue to provide the necessary security for ensuring that residents observe their Friday congressional prayers peacefully and without threats to their lives and property,” the police commissioner said.
Thus, Sanusi prayed at the central mosque, while Bayero observed his prayers at the Nasarawa palace mosque.
While Sanusi led the two units Friday service, Bayero only observed his prayers as the service was led by another Islamic leader.
Police Commissioner, Gumel, hailed the two monarchs for their cool headedness, saying the Friday prayers were conducted in a peaceful atmosphere across the state.
“I am very pleased with the orderly manner faithful residents conducted themselves before, during and after the prayers without rancour in all parts of the state.
“This is a testament to the effective collaboration between law enforcement agencies and the community.
“The police command looks forward to continued partnership in maintaining peace and order in the state”, he said, praising residents for their cooperation with police personnel deployed in and outside the metropolis, which paved the way for peace.
