The Kano State Government has announced that multiple petitions and counter-petitions regarding alleged blasphemous comments made by Sheikh Lawan Triumph will be forwarded to the Kano State Shura Council for thorough examination and guidance.
The decision follows formal complaints lodged by a coalition of Islamic organisations, including Safiyatul Islam of Nigeria, Tijjaniya Youth Enlightenment Forum, Interfaith Parties for Peace and Development, Sairul Qalbi Foundation, Habbullah Mateen Foundation, Imams of Juma’at Mosques under the Qadiriyya Movement, the Committee of Sunnah Preachers, and Multaqa Ahbab Alsufiyya.
According to the petitions, Sheikh Lawan’s recent preaching in Kano contained statements described as offensive and blasphemous towards Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), a matter considered deeply sensitive within the Muslim community.
Government’s Position
In a statement issued on Friday, the Press Secretary to the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Musa Tanko, confirmed the Governor’s directive.
“His Excellency, Governor Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has instructed that all petitions and counter-petitions be transmitted to the Kano State Shura Council for careful review and recommendations,” the statement read.
Tanko added that the move aligns with the government’s responsibility to preserve peace, unity, and respect for religious values across the state.
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The Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Umar Farouk Ibrahim, further appealed to the public:
“We urge citizens to remain calm and law-abiding. The government reassures everyone that the issue will be treated with utmost seriousness and in a manner that respects religious sensitivities.”
Reactions from Petitioners
Leaders of the petitioning organisations welcomed the referral, stressing the need to safeguard the Prophet’s name and maintain religious harmony in Kano.
A spokesperson for the Committee of Sunnah Preachers remarked:
“Our concern is to protect the sanctity of Prophet Muhammad’s name and ensure unity among Muslims. We trust the Shura Council to provide wise counsel for an amicable resolution.”
Similarly, a representative of Safiyatul Islam of Nigeria acknowledged the importance of free speech but stressed the limits of expression:
“Freedom of speech is valuable, but it must not cross into disrespect for our religion. We hope this process promotes peace and deeper understanding.”
Wider Implications
The controversy has sparked intense debate within Kano’s Muslim community, highlighting the ongoing challenge of balancing free religious expression with respect for sacred beliefs.
By entrusting the matter to the Shura Council, a respected body known for mediating religious concerns, the government aims to foster dialogue, prevent escalation, and maintain communal harmony.
