Islamic Police ‘Hisbah’ Dismantles Alleged Holy Site in Kano Where People Drank Mud Water Believed to Contain Prophet’s Footprint

The Kano State Hisbah Board recently dismantled a makeshift pilgrimage site in the Dakata Industrial Area, which had gained attention after unverified claims circulated that it contained the footprint of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him). The site, which attracted large crowds, gained popularity when local residents discovered what appeared to be a muddy imprint resembling a footprint.

Adding to the mystery, water began to seep from the ground, leading many to believe the location had divine healing powers. Videos widely shared on social media showed men, women, and children flocking to the site, engaging in various spiritual practices, such as praying, prostrating, and performing rituals. Some people were seen collecting the muddy water in bottles, using it for ablution, or pouring it over their bodies in hopes of miraculous healing.

In response, the Deputy Commander of the Kano Hisbah Board, Muhahideen Aminudeen, stated that the board acted quickly after receiving information about the spiritual activities at the site. “Certain individuals spread a false story claiming that the site was holy and that it contained the Prophet’s footprint,” Aminudeen explained. “Sadly, many people without a strong understanding of Islam were misled. We sent officers to the location to educate the public and dismantle the site to prevent further harm.”

Aminudeen emphasized that the claims had no religious or historical basis, reminding the public that Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) never traveled to Africa during his lifetime. “There is no credible record of the Prophet visiting Africa, let alone Kano,” he said. “Spreading such misinformation can mislead people and even pose health risks.”

The Hisbah Board also raised concerns about the water’s safety, noting the site’s proximity to an industrial zone being cleared for railway construction. “We strongly advise residents not to drink or use that water,” Aminudeen warned. “Given the industrial activity in the area, the water could be contaminated.”

No arrests have been made, but the board has launched an investigation to trace the origin of the viral claim. Previously, SaharaReporters reported that large crowds had gathered in Hotoron Arewa, a suburb on the outskirts of Kano, where locals believed the dirty water to be sacred and tied to the “footsteps of Prophet Muhammad.”

The site had become a daily pilgrimage, drawing people from far and wide, many of whom were seeking healing for strange illnesses. Videos from the scene showed individuals scrambling for access to the muddy water, with some drinking it, others collecting it in plastic bottles, and many using it for ritual baths.

Locals described the area as resembling a spiritual healing ground, with people engaging in prayers and using the water with reverence. “People with unusual illnesses are coming to bathe in the water,” one anonymous resident told SaharaReporters. “Villagers from all over are coming, either to drink the water, collect it, or bathe in it, believing it has healing powers.”

Although there is no scientific or religious verification of the claims, the narrative has spread quickly through social media and word of mouth, leading to an increase in visitors. “There’s no control over the situation,” the source added. “Entire families are relocating to the site, bringing sick relatives in hopes of a miracle.”

The unregulated gatherings have raised concerns about safety, with videos showing people pushing and shoving to gain access to the site, raising fears of stampedes and other accidents.