TENSION RISES IN SOKOTO AS YOUTHS PROTEST CLERIC’S CONTINUED DETENTION

Tension briefly gripped parts of Sokoto metropolis on Monday after youths took to the streets to protest the continued detention of Islamic cleric Dahiru Mai Barewa. The protesters reportedly blocked some roads and staged demonstrations in different parts of the city, demanding that the cleric be released following a court order directing his re-arrest and remand. Security personnel were subsequently deployed to contain the situation and restore normal movement.

Mai Barewa is facing allegations of issuing death threats against two Islamic scholars, Sheikh Musa Ayyuba Lukuwa and Malam Murtala Bello Assada. The allegations reportedly stem from a series of videos in which the cleric was said to have made threatening remarks against the two scholars. His alleged disagreement with Lukuwa was linked to comments concerning the parents of Prophet Muhammad, while another video reportedly contained remarks relating to disagreements with certain authorities.

The protest escalated when some members of the crowd allegedly confronted security personnel and attempted to secure Mai Barewa’s release by force. A source familiar with the incident said the protesters appeared determined to take the matter into their own hands, prompting security operatives to intervene. The confrontation temporarily disrupted activities and movement in some affected areas before authorities brought the situation under control.

The cleric’s supporters have continued to oppose his detention, insisting that the allegations should be handled through due process. They have called for his release and argued that justice should be allowed to take its proper course. Meanwhile, the allegations against Mai Barewa have continued to attract attention within Sokoto’s religious community, with some stakeholders urging authorities to investigate the reported threats while maintaining peace and preventing further escalation.

The development has also renewed calls for restraint among residents and supporters of the cleric. While disagreements over the court decision remain, security authorities have warned against attempts to forcibly interfere with lawful proceedings or free a person in custody. The case is expected to remain under judicial consideration as authorities balance the allegations against Mai Barewa with the need to maintain public order in Sokoto.