Rhythm of life: In Kano, one era ends; another begins

That turnout paid tribute in death to a King who in life, during a half-century’s reign, sought to mend even the most rancorous of disputes. ‘Allah, make him among the people who rest in paradise,’ an imam exhorted at the graveside.In keeping with Islamic tradition, there were no eulogies, no songs and no speeches during […]

That turnout paid tribute in death to a King who in life, during a half-century’s reign, sought to mend even the most rancorous of disputes. ‘Allah, make him among the people who rest in paradise,’ an imam exhorted at the graveside.
In keeping with Islamic tradition, there were no eulogies, no songs and no speeches during the funeral ceremonies. The Ado’s body was driven through the chilly streets. Some mourners carried umbrellas to shade them from the intense heat, while others crowded round the bier, keen to touch the body as it was conveyed by. Hundreds of thousands of people, but this time they were pouring out their sorrow. Those who succeeded in surging through police lines to chase after the King, could only touch his coffin.
Many leaders-from all over the country and aboard-came to pay their respects; they were shoulder to shoulder. Where the Emir lay in state surrounded by guards, dignitaries, including political and traditional leaders and the surging masses, inclined their heads in prayer.  From the palace to the streets, the gestures were of gratitude and respect for Ado Bayero whose long-service and commitment to peace and justice may have made him so endearing to many people.  EMIR ALHAJI ADO ABDULLAHI BAYERO, may you rest in perfect peace and may Allah grant you eternal bliss in heaven and grant us all the fortitude to bear our loss. And may the memories, values and principles that you stood for live on—footprints in our hearts and souls forever.

Saleh Shehu Ashaka <[email protected]>;