Kanuri, Yoruba share common roots, says Shehu of Borno
El-Kanemi praises efforts to bridge regional gaps through Qur’anic recitation event
By Abdullahi Yusuf
The Shehu of Borno, Alhaji (Dr) Abba Umar Garbai Al-Amin El-Kanemi, has said the Kanuri and Yoruba peoples share ancient ancestral ties, describing them as belonging to the same race with a long history of mutual affection.
The monarch made the remarks on Tuesday while receiving leaders and contingents from Nigeria’s South-West states participating in the 40th National Qur’anic Recitation Competition, currently under way in Borno State.
El-Kanemi said Borno has historically been a place of peace and coexistence, rejecting perceptions that violence is intrinsic to the state.
“Borno State was peaceful until the unfortunate emergence of insurgency and Boko Haram,” he said, attributing the insecurity to banditry and external elements from neighbouring countries rather than the indigenous population.
The Shehu praised the South-West delegation for their participation in the Qur’anic competition, describing the event as a bridge between Nigeria’s northern and southern regions.
He urged participants to pray for lasting peace and unity in the country and to sustain the spirit of brotherhood fostered by the annual recitation.
The monarch wished the competitors success and assured them of a safe stay, saying the Borno Emirate would always remain open to their Yoruba “brothers”.
SPONSORED
SPONSORED
SPONSORED
