Mammoth Crowds Paint Kano White as Muslims Celebrate Takutaha

• Millions of Muslims peacefully filled the streets of Kano for the annual Takutaha procession, in celebrations of the Prophet Muhammad’s birth
• The event is a centuries-old tradition that strengthens faith and community, uniting people across age and economic status while promoting the Prophet’s teachings of peace and charity
• The celebration is also respected by the non-Muslim community, who testified to the event’s consistent peace and the city’s religious harmony

The city of Kano has on Saturday transformed into a sea of white as millions of faithful Muslims thronged the streets to celebrate the birth of the Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him), an event known locally as Takutaha.

The annual procession, one of the largest of its kind in West Africa, saw devotees from across the state converge on the streets singing praises, and symbolizing Islam.

The massive yet orderly crowd moved in unison through the metropolis.

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Despite the overwhelming numbers, the event was marked by an atmosphere of peace, joy, and communal solidarity.

Findings by Legit.ng shows that the celebration of the Prophet’s birth is a centuries-old tradition in Kano, deeply rooted in the city’s cultural and religious practices.

The term “Takutaha” is derived from the Hausa language, referring to the act of walking or procession.

Voices from the celebration

Amid the vast crowds, Legit.ng correspondent in Kano spoke to a few of them.

Alhaji Musa Ahmed, 67 Retired Civil Servant says it never fails to make him happy.

“I have been participating in this Takutaha for over 50 years. It never fails to fill my heart with joy and strengthen my faith.”

“Seeing this multitude, young and old, united in love for the Prophet (PBUH), is an evidence that the message of Islam is alive and well in Kano. We pray for peace in our country and the entire world,” he added.

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But for the youngsters like Aisha Sani, a University Student describe it as a sense of identity.

“For me, it is incredibly empowering. It is a day we forget our differences, whether you are rich or poor, from the city or village, we are all here as one community.”

“Walking alongside my sisters, singing and remembering the Prophet’s life, gives me a sense of identity and purpose that is hard to describe,” she explained.

However, for the non-Muslims like Chijioke Okeke, an onlooker and business owner says she supply drinks during the celebrations.

“I supply drinks to the shops around here, and I always plan for this day. The crowd is massive, yes, but it is always peaceful. I have never witnessed any trouble.”

“It is a holiday for us all, and we respect it. It shows the beautiful side of Kano’s culture and religious harmony,” she narrated.

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Malam Ibrahim Abdullahi, a local Islamic Scholar cleric says the essence of Maulud is not merely in the procession.

“Takutaha and Malud, It is about reviving the Sunnah (traditions) of the Prophet. We use this occasion to preach sermons, encourage charity, and remind people to emulate the prophet’s exemplary manners. His honesty, kindness, and patience. This public display is a powerful dawah invitation to Islam”

Man arrested in Kano for lewd act

Earlier, Legit.ng reported that a 24-year-old man, Shamsu Yakubu, was arrested by Kano Hisbah after a viral video showed him engaging in an obscene act with a she-goat.

The suspect claimed the act was staged to gain social media attention, though he denied actual contact with the animal.

Hisbah officials condemned the act and ordered mental and drug evaluations, warning against eroding Islamic and moral values for online fame.

Source: Legit.ng