Emir Sanusi Under Fire For Alleged Disrespect To Prophet Muhammad

A photo of the reinstated Emir of Kano, Lamido Sanusi, walking on a customized rug engraved with his adopted name, ‘Khalifa Muhammad Sanusi ll,’ has sparked widespread controversy. Some Islamic clerics have accused the emir of disrespecting religious traditions by stepping on the name ‘Muhammad,’ a revered figure in Islam.

In response to the backlash, Emir Sanusi defended his actions, asserting that his intentions were pure and should be the primary focus. He referenced religious teachings to clarify that his actions were not intended as disrespect toward the Prophet Muhammad.

The debate intensified after a video from Muhammad Sharif, a Zaria-based Islamic cleric, surfaced. In the video, Sharif criticized Sanusi for not following the protocols set by the Tijjaniyya order’s founders, Ahmadu Tijjani and Ibrahim Niasse.

Sharif cited the example of the late American boxer Muhammad Ali, who refused to have his name, shared with the Prophet, placed on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Ali insisted his star be mounted on a wall rather than placed on the ground, out of respect for the Prophet Muhammad.

Ali’s request was granted, and in 2002, his star was installed on the wall of the Kodak Theater, marking a departure from tradition.

Sharif questioned Sanusi’s loyalty to the Tijjaniyya order, stating, “If you truly respect the name Muhammad, no one, not even the Khalifa of Tijjaniyya, should walk on it. I doubt his discipleship under Ahmadu Tijjani.”

Another Tijjaniyya cleric, Ali Abdulrahman, suggested that had such an act occurred during the time of Imam Malik, the emir would have faced punishment for disrespecting religious customs.

The incident has ignited a larger conversation around religious respect and the appropriate ways to honor sacred names.