By Our Correspondent
A prominent Sokoto Islamic cleric, Sheikh Musa Lukwa, was stabbed shortly after he concluded the Jumu’at prayer.Nigeria political analysis
The incident has led to tension and apprehension in parts of Sokoto metropolis on Friday.
The incident was reportedly linked to a previous sermon delivered by the cleric, which some Islamic scholars and their followers considered offensive to the parents of Prophet Muhammad.
The sermon had previously generated tension, with a man identified as Mai Barewa allegedly threatening the cleric and one of his senior students.
Mai Barewa was subsequently arrested and arraigned before a court, with the case still ongoing.
The cleric and his followers were also said to have submitted a written complaint to the Sokoto State Government four days before Friday’s attack, raising concerns over the threats against them.
Sources said the cleric was attacked by a man who allegedly confronted him over the contentious remarks before stabbing him.
Sheikh Lukwa reportedly sustained injuries in the attack and was immediately rushed to a hospital, where he is currently receiving medical attention.
The development reportedly triggered a violent reaction from some followers of the Sheikh, who descended on the alleged attacker and killed him instantly.
The killing has further heightened concerns over the dangers of religiously charged confrontations and the resort to mob justice, particularly in circumstances involving sensitive allegations capable of inflaming public sentiment.
The incident also raised fresh concerns over the need for restraint, due process and responsible handling of allegations bordering on blasphemy and religious sensitivities in the country.
Confirming the incident, the Public Relations Officer of the Sokoto State Police Command, Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Ahmad Rufai, acknowledged that the incident occurred but declined to provide further details.
DSP Rufai’s confirmation came amid heightened tension surrounding the circumstances that led to the attack and the subsequent killing of the alleged assailant.
As of the time of filing this report, details regarding the identity of the attacker, the exact nature of the injuries sustained by Sheikh Lukuwa and the circumstances surrounding the killing of the alleged assailant remained unclear.
Meanwhile, the condition of Sheikh Lukwa could not be independently ascertained beyond reports that he was receiving medical treatment at a hospital.
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