Sokoto State Governor, Ahmed Aliyu, has expressed his strong disapproval of the recent mob killing of a butcher in the state, News About Nigeria reports.
The butcher, identified as Usman Buda, was accused of making blasphemous comments against Prophet Muhammad, which allegedly led to his brutal killing by extremist Muslims.
Governor Aliyu, in a statement released by his spokesperson, Abubakar Bawa, emphasized that his administration would not tolerate any action that tarnishes the reputation of the Prophet, especially in a state like Sokoto, where the majority of the population adheres to the Islamic faith.
However, Governor Aliyu also cautioned the residents against taking the law into their own hands.
He urged them to remain calm and law-abiding while the relevant authorities investigate the matter.
The Sokoto State Command’s Public Relations Officer, ASP Ahmad Rufa’i, confirmed the incident and reported that the police, led by the Commissioner of Police, Area Commander Metro, and DPO Kwanni, arrived at the scene to find the mob dispersed and Buda unconscious.
Buda was rushed to Usmanu Danfodio Teaching Hospital Sokoto (UDUTH), where he was later pronounced dead.
In his response, the governor stressed the importance of respecting the Prophet but reminded the people of Sokoto that their religion forbids them from taking the law into their own hands.
He stated that the residents of Sokoto hold great reverence for Prophet Muhammad, and therefore, it is crucial for everyone to uphold his dignity and honor.
Governor Aliyu urged the people to report any alleged crime or blasphemy to the appropriate authorities instead of resorting to vigilantism.
The governor’s spokesperson, Bawa, further conveyed that Governor Aliyu warned against any form of troublemaking, assuring the people that his administration is committed to ensuring the safety of lives and property.
The governor made it clear that acts of blasphemy would be taken seriously and dealt with decisively in accordance with Islamic laws.
He sent a strong message to potential troublemakers, emphasizing that Sokoto is not a conducive environment for their activities.
