A popular Islamic cleric, Musa Lukwa, was reportedly stabbed shortly after the Juma’at prayer in Sokoto on Friday, triggering a violent reaction from his followers who allegedly killed the attacker.
The incident occurred after Friday prayers and is believed to be linked to a controversial sermon previously delivered by the cleric.
The sermon had reportedly generated opposition from some Islamic scholars and their followers, who considered it offensive to the parents of Prophet Muhammad.
A man identified as Mai Barewa had allegedly threatened Sheikh Lukwa and one of his senior students over the sermon.
He was subsequently arrested and arraigned before a court, with the case reportedly still pending.
Sources said the suspect confronted the cleric after Friday prayers and stabbed him.
Sheikh Lukwa was rushed to a hospital for treatment.
However, his followers reportedly overpowered the alleged attacker and killed him in the ensuing violence.
The development has raised fresh concerns over threats arising from religious disagreements and the resort to mob justice.
Sources also said the cleric and his followers had submitted a written complaint to the Sokoto State Government four days before Friday’s attack, expressing concern over alleged threats against them.
The Sokoto State Police Command confirmed the incident.
Its spokesperson, DSP Ahmad Rufai, acknowledged that the incident occurred but declined to provide further details.
The cleric’s current condition and other details surrounding the alleged attack and subsequent killing could not be independently verified at the time of filing this report.
