Emir leads prayers for Kano killings

The Emir of Kano and the state's governor offered prayers yesterday for the more than 150 people killed in co-ordinated attacks by the radical Islamist sect Boko Haram, though fear kept many Nigerians from coming to the mosque.

Emir Ado Bayero, 81, led the service at a mosque in Kano, a city in Nigeria's Muslim north. The mosque was half-empty, and police officers stood guard with assault rifles.

"I call on people from all groups to pray for this place," said Emir Bayero, who was joined by the Kano state governor, Rabiu Kwankwaso.

The Nigerian Red Cross estimates more than 150 people died in Friday's attacks in Kano, which saw at least two Boko Haram suicide bombers detonate explosive-laden cars.

AP