Kaduna Islamic scholars petition gov’t over alleged blasphemy

A group of Islamic scholars under the umbrella of the Concerned Ulama of Sunnah has petitioned the Kaduna State Government, accusing two preachers of making offensive statements against Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) in their social media sermons. The petition, signed by sixteen scholars and submitted under the leadership of Shaikh Umar Shehu Zaria […]

A group of Islamic scholars under the umbrella of the Concerned Ulama of Sunnah has petitioned the Kaduna State Government, accusing two preachers of making offensive statements against Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) in their social media sermons.

The petition, signed by sixteen scholars and submitted under the leadership of Shaikh Umar Shehu Zaria and Malam Muhammad Sani Abubakar, the Chief Imam of Juma’at Mosque Hayin Na’iya, called on the state government to urgently intervene.

According to the petitioners, the actions of the two scholars were “capable of causing tension in our beloved state” if left unchecked.

They urged the authorities “to invite them for a debate if need be or to stop them,” warning that failure to act could “lead to tension and possible violence which the government may not want to happen.”

The group emphasised that the issue transcends personal grievances and touches on core Islamic values.

“It is a fundamental creed of the Muslim Ummah to revere and safeguard the dignity of our noble Prophet Muhammad (SAW),” the petition read. “He is the source from which all benefits in this world or in the Hereafter for every Muslim emanate.”

Citing Islamic jurisprudence, the scholars referenced classical authorities to underscore the gravity of blasphemy.

In response, the Director General of the Kaduna State Bureau for Interfaith, Tahir Umar Tahir, confirmed receipt of the petition and assured the scholars that their concerns would be addressed.

“We received their petition on behalf of the State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, and God willing, we will look into their complaints,” Tahir said. “Measures will be taken to forestall any act of violence.”

Tahir urged religious leaders to exercise restraint in their preaching, cautioning against “any form of message capable of creating disunity and tension in the state.”