A suitor in Durmin Biri village, in the Kafur Local Government Area of Katsina State identified as Yari Inusa, has reportedly died while competing in the “Sharo” traditonal game unique to the Fulani. The Guardian reports that deceased had been competing against another man, one Ahmed Saidu, for the hand of a lady when he was hit over his head with the cane.
According to the reports, Inusa had reportedly flogged Saidu without incident. However, when it was Saidu’s turn, he flogged Inusa at the back of his head, rather than on his back as the rules of the game stipulates.
Inusa reportedly passed out and had to be taken to the hospital, where he was confirmed dead. The father of the deceased reported the incident to the police, after which Saidu was immediately arrested.
The Guardian reports that Inusa’s corpse has been released to the family, and has been buried in line with Islamic rites.
The Fulani tradition marriage rites involves “sharo” which is a game in which two suitors flog one another publicly in a bid to win a maiden’s hand in marriage.
The process is believed to prove the strength of the potential groom as well as his worth in terms of strength, resilience and endurance. In what is considered ‘an act of bravery’ the groom is expected not to wince, cry or show any sign of pain, while asking for more strokes.
