Leadnaija
A prominent Sokoto-based Islamic cleric, Sheikh Murtala Asada, who has been vocal in his criticism of notorious banditry kingpin Bello Turji, narrowly escaped an assassination attempt at his residence in Sokoto metropolis on Tuesday night.
According to reports by Premium Times, masked gunmen attacked the cleric’s home but were repelled after he fired gunshots, forcing the assailants to flee. Musa Lukuwa, a colleague of the cleric, disclosed during a Friday sermon that one of the attackers scaled the fence to unlock the gate for others, who arrived in vehicles to execute the plan.
“Luckily for the cleric, who was monitoring the attackers through his CCTV camera, he quickly fired shots that forced them to abandon their mission and flee the scene,” Mr. Lukuwa told the congregation. He urged residents to consider obtaining licensed firearms for self-defense, citing Mr. Asada’s actions as an example.
Sources revealed that the intruder who scaled the fence attempted to kill the cleric’s gateman before the gunfire disrupted the attack. The attackers reportedly left without claiming any casualties or damage.
Although no group has claimed responsibility for the attempt, many suspect it is connected to the ongoing feud between Sheikh Asada and Bello Turji.
The cleric has repeatedly condemned Turji’s activities and, in a viral video last year, prayed for his demise, likening him to another slain bandit leader, Halilu Sububu. In response, Turji had threatened the cleric, accusing him of worsening tensions in the area instead of promoting peace.
The Sokoto State Police Command is reportedly analyzing CCTV footage from the incident. However, the police spokesperson, Ahmed Rufa’i, told Premium Times that he had not yet been briefed on the matter.Tap Here To Read Full Details
