The Police in Sokoto State have confirmed the killing of one Usman Buda, by his colleagues in the state for alleged blasphemous comment against the holy Prophet Muhammad SAW.
In a statement signed by the police Public Relations Officer ASP Ahmad Rufa’i, the victim who was also a Muslim was mobbed and attacked by some Muslim faithful who inflicted serious injuries on him.
The statement says, upon receiving the information, the Commissioner of Police, Area Commander Metro and DPO Kwanni led a team of policemen and all other operational commanders to the abbatour which is the scene of the incident.
On arrival, the mob escaped the scene and left the victim unconscious where he was rescued and taken to Usmanu Danfodio Teaching Hospital Sokoto for treatment, and was later confirmed dead at the said hospital.
The statement further says the Commissioner of Police, Sokoto State Command, CP Ali Hayatu Kaigama, is appealing to members of the public to go about their lawful activities and should not panic as the situation is under control.
He, however, confirmed that investigation was on to arrest the perpetrators and bring them to book.
In a related development, the state governor, Ahmed Aliyu, has called on the people of the state to remain calm and be law-abiding at all times.
The governor made the plea in a statement signed by his spokesperson, Malam Abubakar Bawa.
The governor cautioned the people against any act capable of degrading the personality of Prophet Muhammad SAW especially in a state like Sokoto which is predominantly a Muslim-dominated community.
Aliyu said that 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.
He called on the people of Sokoto State to avoid taking laws into their hands, instead, they should report any alleged crime or blasphemy to the police for necessary action.
The governor also said the present administration will not take the issue of blasphemy lightly and would deal decisively with anyone found guilty of any act aimed at degrading the personality of Prophet Muhammad, in line with the provision of Islamic laws.
The governor assured the people of the state of his administration’s determination to ensure the safety of lives and property of all law-abiding citizens.