Police warn against reprisal after Sokoto cleric survives stabbing

The Sokoto State Police Command has issued a caution to residents against retaliatory violence following an attack on Islamic cleric Musa Lukawa at Lukuwa Mosque after Friday prayers. Lukawa, who survived the assault, was treated at a hospital for injuries to his neck and left hand. Police Public Relations Officer DSP Ahmad Rufai revealed the incident took place at approximately 1:50 pm after a citizen reported a distress call.

An unnamed man entered the mosque armed with a knife and inflicted deep cuts on Lukawa during the Jumu'at prayer. The attacker was subdued by a mob and subsequently killed before law enforcement arrived. According to Rufai, the suspect's body was confirmed dead at Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, and his remains were placed in the mortuary.

The police vehemently denounced the suspect's murder, labeling it as "jungle justice" and urging residents to allow the legal process to unfold. Commissioner of Police Hayatu Hassan Shaffa emphasized the importance of permitting the police investigation to determine the full details of the incident. The command has reinforced security presence in the area while the inquiry proceeds, urging residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious behavior to the authorities instead of meting out their own justice.