Usman Buda, a butcher in Sokoto, Northwest Nigeria, was reportedly killed for allegedly blaspheming Prophet Muhammad during an argument with another trader at the Sokoto main Abattoir. The incident occurred on a Sunday morning, and despite efforts by local leaders to save him, the crowd overwhelmed them. Buda was beaten to death by his fellow butchers, and his body was later taken by the police. Some of Buda’s business partners who attempted to rescue him were injured and are receiving treatment at a hospital.
The deceased was known to be a religious person and belonged to the Izala sect. His neighbors and colleagues expressed shock and disbelief over the allegations, stating that there must be a reason behind his murder. The specific statement made by Buda that was considered blasphemous was not mentioned in the report.
The Sokoto State Police Command confirmed the mob killing and stated that they received a distress call about the incident. They dispatched a team to the scene, but the mob had already dispersed, leaving Buda unconscious. He was rescued and taken to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The police have launched an investigation to arrest the perpetrators and bring them to justice.
This incident brings to mind a similar case in May 2022, where a female student, Deborah Samuel, was burnt to death by her colleagues at Shehu Shagari College of Education in Sokoto for allegedly insulting Prophet Muhammad. Samuel’s murder was connected to a voice note she sent to her class WhatsApp group, protesting against the constant sending of unnecessary messages. Despite widespread outrage and calls for the perpetrators to be apprehended, no arrests have been made in that case even over a year later.
