Kano, Nigeria – Hundreds of people have been gathering daily at a small pool of water in the Hotoron Arewa area of Kano State, following widespread rumours that it flows from a spot where the Prophet Muhammad once stepped.
The mysterious water source, located in Nassarawa Local Government Area, has quickly become a spiritual destination, attracting visitors from different parts of the state and beyond. Many say they are looking for healing from various illnesses.
In videos circulating online, people can be seen praying, filling bottles with the muddy water, pouring it on themselves, and even drinking it straight from their hands.
One visitor, Auwalu Musa, who came from Gaya, said he brought his mother who has been suffering from a stroke. “We heard the water can heal, so we came to try it. We believe it’s linked to the Prophet, and that gives us hope,” he told PUNCH Online while helping his elderly mother into a tricycle.
But the growing crowd has raised safety concerns. Some residents say the situation is becoming chaotic, with no government control or security presence on site.
“People keep coming every day. Some have pitched tents here, sleeping and praying at the spot. There have even been fights over who gets to the water first,” said Maryam Tijjani, who lives in Hotoron Arewa.
A local man, who asked not to be named, said the crowd began to form after a group of youths claimed they found footprints at the site. “They said water started coming out from the exact spot where the footprints appeared. Since then, people believe it’s a miracle,” he said.
So far, neither the Kano State Government nor health officials or religious leaders have issued any official statement about the claims or the safety of the water.
Medical professionals are warning of serious health risks. Dr. Nasir Sa’id, a public health expert based in Kano, advised people to stay away from the untreated water.
“This water is not clean. It’s stagnant, muddy, and likely contaminated. People drinking or bathing in it could be exposed to diseases. This is a major health risk,” he said.
Despite these warnings, more people continue to arrive, hoping for relief.
“This may sound strange to some people, but when you're desperate for a solution, you hold on to anything that brings you hope,” said Halima Yusuf, who travelled from Jigawa with her three-year-old son, who has a skin condition.
As the number of visitors grows and health concerns mount, the silence from the authorities leaves many questions unanswered.
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