Prof. Ishaq Akintola

They said: “As Muslims and Nigerians, we are united with other citizens in expressing complete shock and revulsion at the murder of Deborah Samuel, a student of Shehu Shagari College of Education, Sokoto on 12th of May, 2022, alleged to have blasphemed against Prophet Muhammed.

“As leaders of Muslims organisations, we amplify the voice of condemnation by other Muslim leaders, most notably the Sultan, against the dastardly murder of Deborah, we call for swift and transparent justice against her killers.

“The tragic event of murder of Deborah Samuel can be utilised as a turning point in Muslim-Christian relations, and herald a new era of peaceful and respectful coexistence. These are achievable ideals it f each religious adherents will embrace and sincerely practice the sublime messages of their faith

“We condemn every act of insult and provocation along religious and ethnic fault lines. In particular, we condemn in equal measure any insults, abuse, denigration, or mischievous attacks against any and all of prophets of God.

“We urge governments of all states of the federation to strengthen or promulgate laws to criminalise blasphemy, and killing for blasphemy outside the law, and faithfully enforce them.

“We condemn jungle justice, and lament it’s endemic nature in Nigeria and call for justice for all other victims of extra judicial killngs.. the Lekki killing by Okada riders and other similar acts of barbarism and mob violence.”…