1 month ago
The Sokoto State Government has established an investigative committee of Islamic scholars following a violent incident at the Sheikh Musa Lukuwa Jumu’at Mosque in the Mabera area. The panel is tasked with identifying both the immediate and underlying causes of the religious tensions linked to the event, as well as recommending steps for the government to take to address the situation.
According to a statement released on Monday by Abubakar Bawa, the Director-General of Media and Publicity at the Government House in Sokoto, the state has also ordered the mosque to be shut down immediately. The facility is currently being treated as a crime scene and will remain closed until further notice.
In the statement, Bawa emphasized that the state government distances itself from any individuals who leverage religion to disrespect Prophet Muhammad, his parents, household, or companions. He called on residents to demonstrate affection and empathy toward the Prophet and to avoid making inflammatory remarks that could disrupt peaceful coexistence in the state. Additionally, the government reiterated its dedication to safeguarding the lives and property of its citizens.
The government's actions follow an attack on September 11, when the cleric, Lukuwa, was stabbed shortly after leading Juma’at prayers at the mosque. The assailant, who was reportedly positioned among the congregation, allegedly stabbed the cleric twice in the neck before being overpowered and killed by other worshippers at the scene.
Why It Matters
Sokoto State, located in northwestern Nigeria, is a predominantly Muslim region and the spiritual seat of the Sokoto Caliphate, making it a highly sensitive area regarding Islamic religious matters. Religious tensions and
English (US) ·