The Sokoto State Government has ordered the closure of the Musa Lukuwa Jumu’at Mosque in Mabera, Sokoto metropolis, following a violent incident at the place of worship.
The government has also constituted a committee of Islamic scholars, known as Ulamas, to investigate the immediate and underlying causes of the incident and recommend measures to prevent a recurrence.
The development comes amid growing religious tensions in parts of Sokoto metropolis and follows the reported attack on Islamic cleric Malam Musa Lukuwa shortly after he leads the Jumu’at prayer at the mosque.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Director General, Media and Publicity, Government House, Abubakar Bawa, says the government considers the mosque a crime scene.
The facility will remain closed until further notice as authorities conduct investigations into the circumstances surrounding the violence.
The government says the newly constituted committee will examine the circumstances surrounding the religious tension and provide recommendations aimed at protecting peace and stability in the state.
The panel is expected to consider both the immediate events surrounding the incident and the underlying factors that may have contributed to the tension.
According to the government, the committee’s findings will guide the authorities on appropriate steps to prevent similar incidents and strengthen peaceful coexistence among residents. The government has also ordered a full investigation into the attack and the subsequent killing at the mosque.
The mosque closure comes as authorities respond to concerns over religious tensions in parts of Sokoto metropolis.
The incident at the Musa Lukuwa Jumu’at Mosque has attracted particular attention because it occurs shortly after the Friday congregational prayer, when worshippers gather in large numbers.
Also Read: Worshippers kill attacker of Sokoto cleric
The government’s decision to close the mosque indicates an effort to prevent further confrontation while the circumstances surrounding the incident are established.
Authorities are also seeking to ensure that the situation does not escalate into wider unrest or affect relations among residents in other parts of the metropolis.
The Sokoto State Government has also clarified its position on religious conduct and distanced itself from anyone who uses religion as a justification for actions that could undermine social harmony.
The government says it dissociates itself from any individual, regardless of status, who hides under the pretext of religion to undermine or disrespect Prophet Muhammad, PBUH, his parents, household and companions. It reaffirms its “total obedience and respect” for the Prophet, his parents, household and companions.
The government also urges residents to continue to demonstrate love, respect and compassion towards the Prophet while avoiding actions that could deepen existing tensions.
The state government is appealing to residents to exercise restraint and avoid statements capable of aggravating the situation.
It specifically urges the public to desist from making inciting statements that could jeopardize the peaceful coexistence for which Sokoto is known. The appeal forms part of the government’s broader effort to contain tensions while the investigation continues.
Authorities are also expected to rely on the findings of the Ulamas committee to determine appropriate measures for addressing the causes of the dispute and reducing the possibility of further violence.
The Sokoto State Government assures residents that it remains committed to protecting the lives and property of everyone across the state.
It says the authorities will continue to take steps necessary to preserve peace and stability while the investigation into the mosque incident progresses.
The government’s response combines the temporary closure of the mosque, a formal investigation and the involvement of Islamic scholars in examining the religious dimensions of the tension.
The measures are intended to establish the circumstances surrounding the violence, address its underlying causes and prevent further incidents from threatening peace in Sokoto metropolis.
With the mosque remaining closed until further notice, attention now turns to the investigation and the recommendations of the Ulamas committee.
The government says the committee’s findings will help determine appropriate measures in the interest of peace and stability.
Officials are also urging residents to remain calm and avoid actions or comments that could inflame tensions as authorities work to establish the facts surrounding the incident.
Daily Trust
