A prominent Islamic scholar, Sheikh Musa Lukuwa, is receiving treatment in hospital after he was stabbed shortly after observing Friday Juma’at prayers at a mosque in the Mabera area of Sokoto metropolis.
The suspected attacker was immediately overpowered by worshippers, who allegedly lynched him before security operatives could intervene.
Confirming the incident, the spokesperson of the Sokoto State Police Command, DSP Ahmed Rufa’i, said the command was aware of the development and had launched an investigation.
“We are aware of the unfortunate development,” DSP Rufa’i said, adding that investigations had commenced to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
He assured journalists that the command would provide further updates as the investigation progresses.
The attack comes weeks after reports emerged that Sheikh Lukuwa had allegedly received threats from a suspected hoodlum leader, Dahiru Shehu Maibarewa, over comments described by his critics as blasphemous.
The alleged threats generated widespread concern and speculation over the cleric’s safety. Maibarewa was later reported to have been remanded in prison in connection with the matter.
A few weeks before Friday’s incident, a video circulated on social media showing Sheikh Lukuwa heading to his mosque while carrying what appeared to be a pump-action gun, a move widely interpreted as a warning against any attempt on his life.
As of the time of filing this report, the injured cleric was said to be receiving treatment at an undisclosed hospital in Sokoto metropolis.
Hospital officials declined to reveal the facility where he was admitted, citing security concerns, although sources familiar with the situation said he was responding to treatment.
Police authorities have yet to confirm whether Friday’s stabbing was connected to the earlier threats, as investigations continue.
