An Islamic cleric, Malam Musa Lukwa, was reportedly stabbed shortly after leading Friday prayers in Sokoto State, leaving worshippers shocked by the incident.
The attack occurred after the Juma’at prayer, with the suspect allegedly turning on the cleric following a controversial sermon delivered during the service.
The incident has raised concerns over growing tensions surrounding religious preaching and the safety of clerics while carrying out their duties.
Lukwa had just concluded the Friday prayer when the alleged attacker approached him and stabbed him. Details surrounding the extent of the cleric’s injuries and what happened immediately after the attack were still emerging.
The motive behind the assault was linked to disagreement over the cleric’s sermon, although authorities are expected to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident through investigation.
The attack has also drawn attention to the need for worshippers and religious leaders to handle disagreements over sermons and religious interpretations without resorting to violence.
Friday prayers usually attract large gatherings, making security and peaceful conduct particularly important in and around major mosques.
The incident adds to concerns over violent confrontations involving religious figures and worshippers, with stakeholders expected to call for calm while the relevant authorities investigate the circumstances surrounding the stabbing.
Authorities are expected to provide further details on the condition of the cleric and the status of the alleged attacker as the investigation progresses.