Emir of Kano calls Nigerians to arms over Boko Haram

One of northern Nigeria's most influential Muslim leaders and Emir of Kano, Muhammad Sanusi, has called on people to defend themselves against attacks by the Boko Haram Islamist group.

The Emir who until earlier this year, was governor of Nigeria's central bank, made the comments at a prayer meeting.

The Emir normally stays silent on political matters.

Jihadists from Boko Haram continue to cause havoc in parts of north-east Nigeria, capturing towns and villages where they have been imposing their own strict interpretation of Islamic law.

BBC