Sokoto Govt Orders Probe Into Deadly Mosque Attack

The Sokoto State Government has constituted a committee to investigate the circumstances surrounding an attack at the Sheikh Musa Lukuwa Jumu'at Mosque in the Mabera area of the state.

This is contained in a statement issued by the Director-General, Media and Publicity at Government House, Mr Abubakar Bawa, on Monday in Sokoto.

According to Bawa, the committee — comprising Islamic scholars (Ulama) — has been tasked with investigating both the remote and immediate causes of the recent religious tensions in the area, and will advise the government on appropriate measures to address the situation in the interest of the state.

"The government has also ordered the immediate closure of the mosque, which is a crime scene, until further notice," Bawa said, adding that the state government dissociates itself from any individual, regardless of status, who hides under the pretext of religion to undermine or disrespect Prophet Muhammad, his parents, household, and companions. "The state government reaffirms its total obedience and respect for Prophet Muhammad, his parents, household and companions," he said.

Bawa urged residents to continue showing love and compassion for the Prophet, while appealing to the people of the state to refrain from making inciting statements capable of jeopardising peaceful coexistence in Sokoto. He assured residents of the government's commitment to protecting the lives and property of every citizen in the state.

It was reported that on September 11, the mosque's leader, Lukawa, was allegedly stabbed in the neck shortly after leading the Jumu'at congregational prayers. further reports said that angry worshippers inside the mosque overpowered the assailant and fatally beat him at the scene.