KANO — The Kano State Shura Council has stepped into a growing controversy over alleged blasphemy by popular Islamic scholar Sheikh Lawan Triumph, resolving to invite both the petitioners and the cleric for questioning before offering guidance to the government.
Council Secretary Shehu Wada Sagagi announced the move after the council’s maiden meeting, saying petitioners will first be heard to elaborate on their allegations, after which Sheikh Triumph will be given the right of reply.
“After deliberations, the committee resolved that both parties will be invited for clarification and defense. Thereafter, the committee will deliberate strictly in line with Islamic jurisprudence before advising the government accordingly,” Sagagi told reporters, commending the state for promptly referring the matter to the advisory body.
He urged residents to maintain peace and harmony, stressing that the accusations remain allegations until established through the council’s process. Kano, he added, remains one of the Northwest’s most peaceful states, a status that must be preserved to support economic and social development.
The state government on Friday confirmed receipt of multiple petitions and counter-petitions from faith-based Islamic groups concerning comments attributed to Sheikh Triumph. Petitioning organizations include 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, Kano, and Multaqa Ahbab Alsufiyya.
The council’s inquiry is expected to establish facts, weigh them against Islamic legal principles, and submit a formal advisory to the Kano State Government on next steps. No timeline for the hearings was announced.
