Blasphemy: Governor Aliyu warns residents against jungle justice in Sokoto

The Sokoto State Governor, Ahmed Aliyu, says his administration will not condone any act capable of degrading the Prophet, in a state like Sokoto which is predominantly Muslim.

The governor was reacting to the mob killing of a butcher in the state over alleged blasphemy against Prophet Muhammad.

The Governor in a statement signed by his spokesperson, Abubakar Bawa enjoined the residents to remain calm and law-abiding as the matter is receiving due attention from relevant authorities, warning them against taking laws into their own hands.

A butcher identified as Usman Buda, was on Sunday killed by extremist Muslims over an alleged blasphemous comment.

ASP Ahmad Rufa’i, the Public Relations Officer of the Sokoto State Command, in a statement, confirmed the incident and revealed that a team of policemen were led to the scene by the Commissioner of Police, Area Commander Metro, and DPO Kwanni, only to find the mob had dispersed and Buda left unconscious.

He was taken to Usmanu Danfodio Teaching Hospital Sokoto (UDUTH), where he was later confirmed dead.

The state Governor in reaction told the people of the state to understand that the Islamic religion does not permit them to take laws into their own hands.

Aliyu said, ”Sokoto people have so much respect and regard for Prophet Muhammad SAW, hence the need for all the residents to respect, and protect his dignity and personality.”

The Governor warned the people against fomenting trouble as his administration would guarantee the safety of lives and property, saying that the present administration would not take the issue of blasphemy lightly and will deal decisively with anyone found guilty of any act aimed at degrading the personality of Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, in line with the provision of Islamic laws.