The Sokoto State Government has closed the Lukuwa Jumu’at Mosque in Mabera, Sokoto metropolis, following the stabbing of cleric Sheikh Musa Ayuba Lukuwa after Friday prayers and the subsequent killing of his alleged attacker by worshippers. The government ordered a full investigation and formed a committee of ulamas to address the crisis, while condemning any religiously motivated violence.
The Incident and Immediate Government Response
The attack occurred during Friday Juma’at prayers at the Lukuwa Jumu’at Mosque, where Sheikh Musa Ayuba Lukuwa was reportedly assaulted by an individual who used a knife. According to the State Police Command, the assailant entered the mosque after the prayers and attacked the cleric before being overpowered and beaten to death by worshippers. Police spokesperson Ahmad Rufa’i confirmed the incident was reported at about 1:50 pm, with preliminary investigations indicating that the assailant entered the mosque after the prayers and attacked Lukuwa.
The government swiftly responded by ordering the mosque’s closure as a crime scene, stating it would remain shut until investigations conclude. The government has ordered a full investigation into the attack and killing at Musa Lukuwa Jumu’at Mosque, Mabera, and ordered the closure of the mosque (crime scene) till further notice,
said Abubakar Bawa, Director-General, Media and Publicity, Government House. The move aims to preserve evidence and prevent further escalation of tensions in the area.
Government Actions and Public Appeals
The Sokoto State Government has taken multiple steps to manage the fallout. It formed a committee of Islamic scholars (ulamas) to examine the remote and immediate causes of such crisis
and advise on measures to prevent future conflicts. The State Government has constituted a committee of ulamas to examine the remote and immediate causes of such crisis, and to advise the government on the appropriate measures to be taken in the interest of the state,
the government stated.
In addition to the investigation, the government issued a strong condemnation of the violence, emphasizing its commitment to protecting the legacy of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). The Sokoto State Government has dissociated itself from any person of any status that hides under the pretext of religion to undermine or disrespect the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), his parents, his household and his companions,
the statement read. It also urged residents to avoid incisive statements
that could destabilize the region, which is known for its peaceful coexistence.
Witness Accounts and Community Reactions
Sheikh Musa Ayuba Lukuwa, the attacked cleric, later addressed his followers, assuring them of his stability and urging calm. The government has appealed to people in the state to desist from incisive statements that could jeopardise the peaceful coexistence that Sokoto is known for,
Bawa said, echoing the cleric’s plea. However, the incident has already sparked heightened religious tensions in parts of the metropolis, with some residents expressing concern over the potential for further unrest.
The State Police Command confirmed that the alleged attacker was killed by worshippers, a development that has raised questions about the role of vigilante justice. The police are now investigating the circumstances surrounding the attack and the subsequent killing.
Broader Implications and Next Steps
For now, the government has reiterated its commitment to safeguarding lives and property, while urging the public to channel grievances through lawful channels. The Government has appealed to people in the state to desist from incisive statements that could jeopardise the peaceful coexistence that Sokoto is known for,
Bawa said.