Tensions reportedly trace back to an earlier sermon considered offensive to the parents of Prophet Muhammad, as protests disrupt parts of the metropolis.
By Hassan Jinjiri
SOKOTO, Nigeria — A man allegedly attacked an Islamic cleric after Friday prayers in Sokoto, stabbing him twice in the neck before other worshippers subdued the suspect, according to police.
Investigative Account of the Attack
The incident occurred immediately after congregational prayers, where reports said the suspect—described as a young man among worshippers—lunged at the cleric and stabbed him twice in the neck. Witnesses and community sources alleged that the attacker was quickly overpowered by other faithful present at the scene, and the suspect later died amid the ensuing commotion.
Police confirmed that the cleric was taken to the Specialist Hospital, Sokoto, for medical attention and was responding to treatment.
Reported Link to a Controversial Earlier Sermon
Investigations into the motive have pointed to a sermon reportedly delivered by the cleric in the past. Some Islamic scholars and their followers, sources said, considered portions of the sermon offensive—particularly to the parents of Prophet Muhammad.
Officials and community narratives further stated that the earlier tension escalated after a person identified as Mai Barewa allegedly threatened both the cleric and one of his senior students.
Arrest and Court Process Over Alleged Threats
Authorities said Mai Barewa was arrested following the earlier controversy and arraigned before a court. However, the matter was still reportedly before the court at the time of the Friday attack, underscoring how a lingering dispute may have resurfaced into violence.
Complaint to Sokoto State Government Before Friday Attack
Further claims presented to investigators indicate that the cleric and his followers submitted a written complaint to the Sokoto State Government approximately four days before the attack—raising concerns about threats and possible retaliation.
Police later moved to ensure that authorities’ prior engagement and the community’s warning reports were factored into the ongoing inquiry.
Police Statement: Investigation Ongoing, No Suspect Arrest
Confirming the incident, the spokesman for the Sokoto State Police Command, DSP Ahmad Rufa’i, said the cleric was receiving treatment at the Specialist Hospital, Sokoto.
Rufa’i also stated that the suspected attacker was killed by the cleric’s followers and that no arrest had been made in connection with the violence, as officers continued investigations into the circumstances surrounding the attack and identification of all involved individuals.
He added that the police had deployed measures to prevent escalation and urged public restraint while the matter is being processed.
Violence Averted as Cleric Receives Treatment
Police said the victim cleric survived the attack and was responding to treatment at the Specialist Hospital, Sokoto.
Community Protests Follow News of Cleric’s Survival
The report of the cleric’s condition reportedly triggered protests by some youths in parts of the metropolis as news spread after the incident.
Businesses Shut, Security Tightened in Several Areas
Tension reportedly intensified in areas including Sahara, Bello Way and Aliyu Jodi, where some shop owners reportedly closed for fear of potential reprisal attacks. Residents were also seen retreating from commercial hotspots as security operatives moved into strategic locations to maintain law and order.
Conclusion
As police investigations continue, authorities have called on residents to remain calm, avoid vigilantism, and allow legal processes to determine accountability. The incident has renewed concerns about how unresolved religious disputes and prior threats may escalate into public disorder.
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