Sokoto State Governor, Ahmed Aliyu, has reacted to the killing of a man by rampaging Islamic fanatics over blasphemy.
One Usman Buda Mai Hanji was stoned to death for allegedly making blasphemous comments on the personality of Prophet Muhammad, (Peace Be Upon Him) at the Sokoto main abattoir on Sunday.
Reacting to the development, Aliyu implored the people of the state to remain calm and law abiding at all times.
The governor made the plea in a statement signed by his Spokesperson, Malam Abubakar Bawa, following the attack.
The governor cautioned the people against any act capable of demeaning the personality of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) especially in a State like Sokoto which is predominantly a Muslim community.
Aliyu said that Sokoto people have so much respect and regard for Prophet Muhammad, hence the need for the residents to respect and protect His dignity and personality.
He called on the people of the State to desist from taking laws into their own hands, instead, they should report any alleged crime or blasphemy to the appropriate authorities for necessary action.
He maintained that Islam does not encourage taking laws into one’s hand, hence urged all to be good followers of the religion.
“The present administration will not take the issue of blasphemy lightly, and will deal decisively with any one found guilty of any act aimed at degrading the personality of Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him), in line with the provision of Islamic law”, the governor warned.
The Sokoto governor assured residents of the State of his administration’s commitment to guarantee the safety of lives and property of all law-abiding citizens.