Emir of Kano, Muhammad Sanusi, has called on people to defend themselves against attacks by Boko Haram terrorists.

The former Central Bank of Nigeria Governor said residents should “acquire what they need” to protect themselves. He made the comments at a prayer meeting, says a BBC report.

Boko Haram, which means ‘Western education is a sin’, often attacks educational establishments.

According to Emir Sanusi, “These terrorists slaughter our boys and abduct our girls to force them into slavery. People should not be afraid of them because of the recent success they seem to have achieved.

“People should not sit idle and say prayer is the only solution. People should be made aware of the importance of being in a state of preparedness and make sure they acquire what they need to protect themselves. We should be ready to give our lives.”

The Emir said residents should not wait for help from the military, according to the report. “There are soldiers who even throw away their guns and flee,” he reportedly said.

BBC said that although Sanusi did not refer to Boko Haram by name, it was highly unusual for such an influential figure to suggest people should arm themselves against the group.

•Photo shows Emir Sanusi.