The Police in Kano have confirmed that the Emir of Kano, Alhaji Ado Bayero narrowly escaped an assassination attempt during last Friday's Juma'at prayers at the Kano Central Kano Mosque.

A suspected hired assassin almost fired at the Kano State paramount traditional ruler, were it not for the vigilance of palace guards.

The Kano State Police Public Relations Officer, Superintendent of Police Baba Mohammed Azare, who confirmed the incidence, says a young man has been arrested in connection with the assassination attempt and is currently being interrogated.

There are no further details as to the motive for the attempted murder of those behind the attack on the Emir. Channels Television however, gathered that a young man had aimed a pistol at the Emir during prayer sessions at the Kano Central Mosque.

One of the palace guards quickly stopped him before he could fire at the monarch.

The Emir who escaped unharmed pleaded with the crowds to spare the would-be-assassin and handed him over to the police.

There is no official statement from the Kano Emirate Council yet, but security has been beefed up in and around the Emir's palace to forestall any unforeseen circumstances.