The Kano State Hisbah Board has dismantled an emerging makeshift pilgrimage site, following unverified claims that the location bore the footprint of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
The site, located around the Dakata Industrial Area which was cleared for railway development recently, gained public attention after a muddy imprint was spotted on the ground.
Coupled with water seeping from the site, the appearance of the footprint led to a frenzy, with thousands of residents and visitors trooping in to drink, bath, and collect the water, believing it to possess divine healing powers.
Videos circulating on social media showed men, women, and children jostling to access the muddy pool, with many prostrating, praying, and engaging in ceremonial acts around the site.
Some were seen scooping the water into plastic bottles, while others used it for ablution or poured it over their bodies in belief of miraculous cures.
Reacting to the development, the Deputy Commander of the Kano moral police, Muhahideen Aminudeen said the board swiftly intervened after receiving reports of the growing activities at the site.
He described the claims as fabricated and dangerous, especially given the absence of any religious or historical basis.
“Some mischief makers circulated this bogus story that the place is a holy site where the Prophet set foot,” he said. “Unfortunately, many people who lack sound knowledge of Islam were misled. We deployed officers to the scene to educate the people and dismantle the site to prevent further harm.”
Aminudeen emphasised that Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) never visited Africa during his lifetime, let alone Kano.
He urged the public to seek authentic Islamic knowledge to avoid falling prey to such deceptive claims.
“This kind of misinformation can lead people astray and even pose health risks,” he added. “We call on parents to ensure their children are properly educated in Islamic teachings.”
He also cautioned residents against consuming the water from the site, warning that it could be contaminated due to the area’s proximity to industrial activities.
No arrests have been made, but the board said it was investigating the origin of the false claim.
