Hundreds of residents in Hotoron Arewa, a suburb on the outskirts of Kano, have been trooping to a muddy water source believed by locals to have emerged from what they claim are the “footsteps of Prophet Muhammad” boldly inscribed on the ground.
The location has quickly turned into a daily pilgrimage site, attracting people from various areas, many of whom are battling strange illnesses and believe the water has miraculous healing powers. A video obtained by the media shows men, women, and children struggling for access to the water — scooping it into bottles, drinking with their hands, and bathing in it.
The area now resembles a spiritual healing ground, with people seen prostrating, praying, and rubbing the muddy water on their bodies in reverence. According to a local source who spoke on condition of anonymity, “Villagers are coming from all over, either to drink the water, collect it in plastic bottles, or bathe in it. They believe it heals.”
Locals believe the water is sacred and say it is seeping from markings interpreted as the footprints of Prophet Muhammad. Despite the absence of scientific or religious verification, the narrative has spread widely through social media and word of mouth, drawing more visitors daily.
“There’s no control,” the source added. “Entire families are now relocating to this place. Some are bringing their sick relatives here, hoping for miracles.”
However, concerns have been raised over the lack of regulation, as the swelling crowds pose risks of stampedes and other safety issues. Videos show chaotic scenes with people shoving and scrambling to reach the water.