HUNDREDS of people have gathered outside the Emir’s palace in Bichi town in Nigeria’s Kano state, hoping to catch a glimpse of the wedding ceremony of President Muhammadu Buhari’s son, Yusuf.
His marriage to Zahra Bayero, daughter of the Emir of Bichi has stoked interest in Nigeria since it was announced in June that a 145-member strong committee would organise the festivities.
Friday’s ceremony known as a fatiha, a male-only event where customary rites are carried out according to Islam, is taking place with top Nigerian dignitaries present, including Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo.
A wedding ceremony and dinner have been planned for Saturday.
There is a heavy security presence in the town ahead of the arrival of President Buhari.
The guest list is a roll-call of Nigeria’s political leaders with several opposition politicians, including former vice-president Atiku Abubakar, in attendance.
Local residents have also dressed up for the occasion.
