Controversy Erupts Over Emir Sanusi II’s Alleged Disrespect Towards Prophet Muhammad

Khalifa Muhammad Sanusi II, the reinstated 16th Emir of Kano, has found himself at the center of a heated controversy after a photo emerged showing him walking on a customised rug inscribed with his adopted name. The rug, featuring the text “Khalifa Muhammad Sanusi II,” has ignited accusations of disrespecting the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) among sections of the Islamic community.

Several Islamic clerics and scholars, particularly from the Tijjaniyya sect, which Sanusi II claims to represent, have openly criticised the emir’s actions. Leading the charge is Zaria-based cleric Muhammad Sharif, who took issue with the use of the prophet’s name on a rug being walked upon. In a viral video, Sharif emphasised the sanctity of the name Muhammad, urging Sanusi II to reconsider his actions in line with Islamic teachings.

“I saw how Muhammad Sanusi, claiming to be the Khalifa of Tijjaniyya, is walking on a carpet inscribed with ‘Khalifa Muhammad Sanusi.’ The name Muhammad is above someone to walk on if you truly respect it. Not even the Khalifa of Tijjaniyya or any Muslim should walk on the name. Even non-Muslims who understand respect wouldn’t do that,” Sharif declared, also questioning the emir’s dedication to the teachings of Tijjaniyya founder, Ahmadu Tijjani.

Sharif further drew a parallel with the late American boxer Muhammad Ali, who famously refused to allow his Hollywood Walk of Fame star to be placed on the ground out of respect for the Prophet Muhammad. Ali’s star remains the only one mounted on a wall rather than embedded in the sidewalk.

In addition, Kano-based cleric Ishaq Adam echoed similar concerns, calling for the immediate removal of the carpet. “Walking on the name Muhammad is an act of disrespect, and the clerics have made it clear: the emir must address this issue,” Adam said.

Another Tijjaniyya cleric, Ali Abdulrahman, highlighted the gravity of the situation by suggesting that if such an incident had occurred during the time of Imam Malik, a revered Islamic scholar, the emir would have faced severe consequences for such an act.

However, Emir Sanusi II responded to the criticism, defending his actions by stressing the importance of intent in Islamic practice. According to the emir, there was no malicious intent in walking on a rug bearing his name. “Actions are judged according to intention,” he said, quoting Islamic teachings. Sanusi II clarified that the name on the rug was his own and not that of the Prophet Muhammad.

The emir further expressed his openness to constructive criticism, saying, “I will listen to any superior argument, but those accusing me of wrongdoing may not fully understand my actions.”

Sanusi II, originally known as Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, adopted the name Muhammad Sanusi II upon his initial appointment as Emir of Kano in 2014, in honour of his grandfather. The debate surrounding the incident has sparked intense discussions within religious circles, dividing opinions on whether the emir’s actions align with Islamic principles or reflect a breach of decorum.