The controversy surrounding allegations of blasphemy against the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) leveled against renowned Islamic scholar, Sheikh Lawan Abubakar, took a new turn on Monday following an extensive interrogation by the Kano State Shura Council.
The three-hour session, held under tight security at the Department of State Services (DSS) headquarters in Kano, provided the embattled cleric an opportunity to address the petitions filed against him.
Sheikh Abubakar, popularly known as Malam Triumph, dismissed the four major allegations of blasphemy brought against him, describing them as falsehoods and misrepresentations of his teachings.
Chairman of the Kano Shura Council, Wazirin Kano Sa’ad Shehu Gidado, disclosed that the council had initially received nine petitions against the cleric but narrowed them down to four, which appeared to contain purported evidence of blasphemous remarks.
According to Gidado, the petitioners accused Sheikh Abubakar of making derogatory statements concerning the birth and circumcision of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW), which they considered blasphemous.
Responding to the allegations, Sheikh Abubakar cited several documentaries and authoritative Islamic texts to defend his position, insisting that his lectures had been taken out of context.
“I understand that some people took parts of my lectures and misinterpreted them, which can easily instigate the public against me,” he said.
“I believe in the Prophet and his teachings. He is our savior. To those who heard my words and misunderstood them, I urge you to watch the full lecture before drawing conclusions. And to those already misled, I seek forgiveness.”
Some members of the Shura Council, after listening to his defence, reportedly acknowledged that Sheikh Abubakar provided credible references to support his arguments, concluding that his statements were not necessarily blasphemous.
However, the council members cautioned the cleric on his style and tone of preaching, urging him to exercise greater sensitivity to the culture, traditions, and emotions of Kano residents, especially when addressing issues related to the Prophet.
The Secretary of the Council, Shehu Wada Sagagi, warned religious scholars to avoid politicizing sensitive religious matters and to always consider the peace and stability of the state.
Sagagi, who also serves as the Commissioner for Trade, Commerce, and Investment, said the Shura Council would compile its report and recommendations for submission to Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf for further action.
