The Kano State Government has handed over several petitions and counterpetitions against Sheikh Lawan Triumph to the state’s Shura Council for review and advice.
The petitions accused Sheikh Lawan of making remarks deemed offensive to Prophet Muhammad during a recent sermon.
It was written by a coalition of Islamic groups such as Safiyatul Islam of Nigeria, Tijjaniya Youth Enlightenment Forum, Interfaith Parties for Peace and Development, Sairul Qalbi Foundation, Habbullah Mateen Foundation, Imams of Juma’at Mosques under the Qadiriyya Movement, Committee of Sunnah Preachers, and Multaqa Ahbab Alsufiyya,
In a statement issued on Friday, September 26, Musa Tanko, Press Secretary to the Secretary to the State Government, said Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf had directed that the petitions be forwarded to the Shura Council.
“His Excellency, Governor Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has directed that all petitions and counterpetitions be forwarded to the Kano State Shura Council for careful consideration and advice.
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“This measure is in line with our commitment to maintaining peace and unity among all religious groups in Kano,” the statement read.
Speaking on behalf of the government, Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Umar Farouk Ibrahim, urged residents to stay calm.
He said, “We call on all citizens to continue their daily activities peacefully and lawfully. The government assures everyone that this matter will be handled with the utmost seriousness and respect for religious sentiments.”
Some of the petitioners also shared their concerns. The Committee of Sunnah Preachers said their priority was to defend the Prophet’s honour and maintain peace, while Safiyatul Islam of Nigeria noted that freedom of expression must respect faith and values.
The controversy has stirred debate within Kano’s Muslim community about the balance between free speech and religious sensitivity.