A tragic incident occurred in Sokoto, resulting in the death of a butcher named Usman Buda, who allegedly made a blasphemous comment against the Holy Prophet.
The incident took place at around 8 am on Sunday at the Sokoto main Abattoir, following an argument with another trader.
Eyewitnesses reported that although attempts were made by leaders to save Usman Buda, they were unable to control the growing crowd. Initially, he was rescued and hidden, but the crowd eventually overpowered those protecting him. Fellow butchers beat and stoned him to death, and the police later took custody of his body.
According to an anonymous security operative, the suspect hailed from the Tambuwal local government area but resided in Gidan Igwe, Sokoto North local government area. He sold cow entrails at the Sokoto Fish and Vegetables market, known as Kasuwan Dankure. Despite his popularity in the business and his religious background as a member of the Izala sect, his neighbors expressed disbelief that he would make derogatory statements against the Holy Prophet.
The Sokoto State Police Command confirmed the murder, stating that they received a distress call at approximately 9:20 am. The call reported that Usman Buda, a butcher from Gwandu local government area, had blasphemed the Holy Prophet Muhammad.
The police, along with the Commissioner of Police, Area Commander Metro, and DPO Kwanni, promptly responded to the scene. However, the mob had fled, leaving the victim unconscious. He was rushed to Usmanu Danfodio Teaching Hospital Sokoto (UDUTH) for treatment but was later pronounced dead.
The Sokoto State Police Command assured the public that an investigation is underway to apprehend the perpetrators and hold them accountable for their actions.