Defend yourselves against Boko Haram, Emir of Kano tells Nigerians

The Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, has urged Nigerians to brace up and defend themselves against the Boko Haram sect which has been mounting a bloody campaign against Nigerians, killing hundreds and overrunning territories.

The royal father made the call while making the closing remarks at the weekly recitation of the Holy Qu’ran as part of prayers for peace in the country, Sanusi urged religious and community leaders to undertake the immediate task of re-infusing courage in their people, particularly the youth, in order to prepare for self defence against Boko Haram attacks.

“These people”, the Emir recounted in Hausa and referring to Boko Haram, “when they attack towns, they kill boys and enslave girls… People must stand resolute. ”

He reminded the congregation of Muslim clerics, who came from various Islamic schools in Kano, of the saying of the Holy Prophet (PBUH) that whoever dies in defence of his country, family, life or wealth was a martyr.

“People must not assume that the crisis will not reach their area,” the Emir noted. “If it comes, we are asking God to give us fortitude, but if He wishes to take martyrs from amongst us, we should be ready to give our lives.

“People must not wait for soldiers to protect them. There are even instances where soldiers on ground ran away in the face of attack,” he said.

The Emir asked hunters and experts in the area of security and defence to use their expertise in the quest of seeking the pleasure of God by employing it to end the current crisis.

“God will grant us victory over them,” he said.