Songhai emperor Sonni Baru had succeeded his father Sonni Ali on the latter's death on November 6, 1492.

However, one of Sonni Ali's generals, Muhammad Ture, plots to take power, challenging Baru because he is not seen as a faithful Muslim.

As soon as he had made his arrangements for a coup, he attacks Sonni Bāru on February 18, 1493.

Sonni Bāru's army is defeated here and in a second, more decisive battle on April 2, 1493, after which Sonni Bāru flees into exile.

The usurper now takes power as Askia Muhammad Ture, develops an efficient administrative system, organizes a standing army, and makes Islam the empire's official religion.