A furious Muslim youth in Sokoto has taken the life of a butcher named Usman Buda, following allegations that he made blasphemous remarks against Prophet Muhammad.
The incident occurred at the Sokoto metropolis abattoir yesterday morning, around 10:00 a.m.
According to a witness identified as Aliyu, who spoke to Premium Times over the phone, Usman Buda made the blasphemous comment and repeated it three times when confronted by some Muslim youths present.
Aliyu stated, “My brother was at the abattoir when it occurred. When Usman Buda insulted the Prophet, some people said he had mental issues, but most of those around him, who were his business friends, said he was never known to have any mental problems.”
However, the witness did not disclose the specific blasphemous statement that Buda was accused of making.
The Sokoto State Police Command, through its spokesperson, Ahmad Rufai, confirmed the killing in an official statement. Rufai explained that the command received information about the incident and promptly responded.
“On June 25th, 2023, at approximately 9:55 am, a distress call was received at about 9:20 am, reporting that one Usman Buda from Gwandu LGA, a butcher at Sokoto Abattoir, allegedly blasphemed against the Holy Prophet Muhammad (SAW). As a result, he was mobbed and attacked by some faithful Muslims, resulting in serious injuries,” Rufai stated.
Upon receiving the information, the Commissioner of Police, along with the Area Commander Metro and the DPO Kwanni, led a team of officers to the scene. However, upon arrival, the Muslim Youths had already dispersed, leaving the victim unconscious. He was rescued and taken to Usmanu Danfodio Teaching Hospital Sokoto (UDUTH) for medical treatment, but unfortunately, he was pronounced dead at the hospital. The situation in the area is currently calm, according to Rufai.
The police spokesperson further mentioned that an investigation into the incident has been initiated by the command.
It is worth noting that in May 2022, a student named Deborah Samuel from the Shehu Shagari College of Education in Sokoto was lynched by fellow students on allegations of blasphemy. The arrest of some suspects connected to the brutal killing sparked protests, and as a result, the Sokoto government declared a curfew to restore order. However, no one has been charged in relation to the murder.
Thanks for using our platform to learn about Usman Buda, who was mobbed to death in Sokoto State.
