Police confirm one allegedly dead after stabbing of Islamic cleric in Sokoto
Police confirm one allegedly dead after stabbing of Islamic cleric in Sokoto 
From Bashir Rabe Mani in Sokoto
The Police Command in Sokoto State has confirmed the reported death of one person following the stabbing of a prominent Islamic cleric,Sheikh Musa Lukuwa, during Jumu’at prayers on Friday.
The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Rufa’i Ahmad, told newsmen that the suspect was said to have been killed by a mob immediately after he stabbed Lukuwa in the stomach at the end of the Friday congregation.
“Lukuwa, who led the Friday prayers, is currently receiving treatment at the Specialist Hospital, Sokoto.
“The deceased has been evacuated,” Ahmad said.
He said no arrest had been made in connection with the incident, but the situation was under control.
DSP Ahmad Rufai urged residents to remain calm and law-abiding.
Lukuwa was accused of making blasphemous remarks against *Prophet Muhammad, Peace Be Upon Him (PBUH)*, a development that triggered anger among Muslim faithful in the state.
A notorious Sokoto-based gangster, Dahiru Maibarewa, had earlier publicly threatened to kill Lukuwa over the alleged utterances.
The threat sparked street demonstrations in parts of Sokoto metropolis.
It could also be recalled that a coalition of Islamic groups had submitted a petition to the Sokoto State Government and security agencies, demanding action against Lukuwa over statements they said were capable of inciting violence.
At a press conference on Sept. 4, Sheikh Abubakar Yagawal, Leader of the National Sufi Council of Nigeria and National Commissioner in the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, NAHCON, condemned the utterances and called on Muslims to reject any form of blasphemy.
Yagawal described Lukuwa’s comments as “unbecoming and capable of instigating violence” among Muslim communities.
He said the coalition was working with the federal and state governments as well as security agencies to ensure justice in the matter for peaceful coexistence.
“Blasphemy against the Prophet attracts calamity and chaos in society. We must all work to ensure peace and respect for our faith,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Police are said to be making frantic efforts to quell ongoing protests in parts of Spkoto city especially around Specialist Hospital, Sokoto, City Campus and other adjoining areas.
Some shop owners had already locked up although there is a relative calm across the city.
