On June 25, 2023, a man identified as Usman Buda Mai Hanji was stoned to death at the Sokoto Abattoir by a mob for allegedly blaspheming the founder of Islam.
When news of the alleged blasphemous comment began to spread, an enraged mob quickly formed and taking matters into their own hands stoned Usman until he died due to the injuries inflicted upon him in the process.
Details surrounding the alleged blasphemous comment made by Usman remain unclear, as does the exact composition and motivations of the mob that carried out the attack.
Blasphemy allegations have historically sparked violent reactions and pose significant challenges to fostering a climate of religious tolerance and respect for diverse beliefs. On May 12, 2022, Ms Deborah Samuel Yakubu, a second year student of Shehu Shagari College of Education in the same city was killed by a mob of Muslim students who accused her of blasphemy.
