The Sokoto State Government has constituted a 14-member advisory committee to review controversial statements attributed to Islamic scholar, Malam Musa Lukuwa, which reportedly triggered unrest and concerns over peace in the state.
The committee, constituted by the state government, has been given 14 days to examine the issues and submit its recommendations to the government.
According to a statement issued by the Director-General, Media and Publicity, Government House, Sokoto, Abubakar Bawa, the committee will be chaired by the Sarkin Malamai, Malam Yahaya na Malam Boyi, while Umar Muhammad Gandi will serve as secretary.
The committee is expected to critically examine the Shari’ah position on the issues raised by Lukuwa and advise the state government on the appropriate steps to take.
The government said the initiative was aimed at addressing the controversy surrounding the scholar’s utterances and supporting efforts to restore and sustain peace and religious harmony across Sokoto State.
The development comes after concerns were raised over statements allegedly linked to Lukuwa, which reportedly contributed to a breach of peace in parts of the state.
The state government had earlier distanced itself from individuals or groups allegedly using religion as a justification to make statements or engage in actions considered disrespectful to Prophet Muhammad, his parents, household and companions.
The government reiterated its commitment to maintaining peace and religious harmony, while the newly constituted committee is expected to provide guidance on the religious issues at the centre of the controversy.
The committee’s report within the stipulated 14-day period is expected to guide the government’s further response to the matter.
