Tijjaniya Islamic sect has selected the former Emir of Kano, Lamido Sanusi, as its leader in Nigeria.

This occurred on Friday at the annual gathering of the sect in in Sokoto.

The Tijjaniyya sect has members across West, North and East Africa.

Sanusi’s grandfather, who was also Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi I, was the first leader of the sect in Nigeria.

After his death, the sect broke into two factions following the selection of Isiyaka Rabiu as his successor. The other faction rallied behind Dahiru Bauchi and they stuck to their different ways until Rabiu’s death.

On Friday, members and leaders of the two groups met in Sokoto and selected Sanusi as their new leader.

Mr Bauchi was among top leaders of the sect in Nigeria at the event.

Speaking with our correspondent, a member, Ahmed Almustapha, said all the members were happy with the selection.

“This is a welcome development, we all accept the selection of Sanusi as the new leader of Tijjaniya. With him, the sect will be united again.

“Sanusi is well educated both in Islamic and western education. His leadership will make the sect stronger and with unity among us,” Almustapha said.

PT