By Adadareporters
Gov Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto State, Monday, said his administration would deal decisively with anyone who commits blasphemy against the Prophet Muhammad bin Abdullah (PBUH).
This is contained in a statement by Mr Abubakar Bawa, spokesman of the governor. The release specifically warned against ‘degrading the personality of Prophet Muhammad SAW, especially in a state like Sokoto, which is predominantly a Muslim-dominated community’.
Recall that the Sokoto State Police Command earlier confirmed the murder of a butcher, Usman Buda, who was killed on Sunday by extremist Muslims over an alleged blasphemous comment.
According to Bawa, “Sokoto State Governor, Dr Ahmed Aliyu, has called on the people of the state to remain calm and law-abiding at all times. The governor cautioned the people against any act capable of degrading the personality of Prophet Muhammad SAW, especially in a state like Sokoto, which is a predominantly Muslim-dominated community.
“Dr Aliyu said that Sokoto people have so much respect and regard for Prophet Muhammad SAW, hence the need for all the residents to respect, protect his dignity and personality.
“I want to call on the people of Sokoto State to avoid taking laws into their own hands and instead report any alleged crime or blasphemy to the appropriate quarters for necessary action.
“Our religion does not encourage taking laws into one’s hands, so let us try to be good followers of our religion.
“He added that the present administration will not take the issue of blasphemy lightly, and will deal decisively with anyone found guilty of any act aimed at degrading the personality of Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, in line with the provision of Islamic laws.
“The governor assured the people of the state of his administration’s commitment to guarantee the safety of lives and property of all law-abiding citizens.
“The governor also warned would-be troublemakers to have a change of mind, adding that Sokoto is a wrong place for them.”
Deborah Samuel was last year burnt for making a statement some of her student colleagues termed ‘blasphemy’.
