While attempting to evade British capture, the Caliph passed through several towns, drawing followers who joined him with the intention of making the hijra as well.

Caught by surprise, the Caliph's followers fled across the Gongola River to the west, leaving behind their "entire baggage, 63 guns, a quantity of powder, many camels, horses and donkeys.

"Attahiru retreated in the direction of Burmi, writing to the British Resident at Bauchi, C L Temple, stating that "he had no wish to fight [and that] all he asked for was to be allowed to travel in peace."

"[7][10] After learning of the British retreat from Burmi, Browne returned to Gujba, leaving a patrol on the left bank of the Gongola River "to watch the enemy."

Consequently, the British sent an additional force of two officers, half a company of mercenaries and a large supply of ammunition from Zaria to Bauchi.

Major Charles Marsh was sent from Lokoja with a force of 9 European officers, 165 mercenaries with one 75-millimetre gun, reaching Bauchi on July 12.

But before Marsh's arrival, another force of 2 European officers and 50 mercenaries under Captain Sword reached Burmi from Bauchi on June 19.

In response, the British dispatched an additional force of two officers, half a company of mercenaries, and a large supply of ammunition from Zaria to Bauchi.

Major Charles Marsh was sent from Lokoja with a force of nine European officers, 165 mercenaries, and one 75-millimeter gun, arriving in Bauchi on July 12.

However, before Marsh's arrival, another force of two European officers and 50 mercenaries under Captain W D Sword reached Burmi from Bauchi on June 19.

On June 30, Barlow, accompanied by Resident Temple and 130 mercenaries with a Maxim gun, proceeded to 'visit' various villages in the surrounding area.

[11]: 192 A British defeat at Burmi was feared by the colonial administration, largely due to the message it would send to the newly conquered emirates within the protectorate.

The initial failures to capture Burmi by Captain Sword prompted the Colonial Office in London to alert Sierra Leone, the Gold Coast, Lagos, and Southern Nigeria to prepare reinforcements.

[14][page needed][15][13]: 311  Some other notable Sokoto officials managed to escape capture or death, including Etsu Nupe Abubakar and the Emir of Misau, Ahmadu, both of whom fled to Mecca.