Sokoto Govt Shuts Lukuwa Mosque, Probes Attack, Suspect’s Killing

SOKOTO — The Sokoto State Government has ordered the immediate closure of Sheikh Musa Ayuba Lukuwa Jumu’at Mosque in the Mabera area of Sokoto metropolis following an alleged attack on the cleric shortly after Friday prayers. The government also directed security agencies to conduct a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the attack and the subsequent killing of the suspected assailant. In a statement issued amid heightened religious tension in parts of the metropolis, the government warned individuals and groups against taking the law into their own hands under any religious pretext. It said the mosque would remain closed until further notice as it was considered the scene of the incident.

The state government also constituted a committee of Islamic scholars, known as Ulamas, to investigate the immediate and remote causes of the recent tensions and recommend measures to prevent further escalation. The government said it remained committed to protecting lives and property and urged residents to avoid inflammatory statements capable of worsening the situation. It also reaffirmed its respect for Prophet Muhammad, his parents, household and companions, while calling on residents to promote peace, love and compassion. According to the government, any grievances arising from religious disagreements should be addressed through lawful channels as investigations continue into the attack, the killing of the suspected assailant and the events that followed.

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