Kwara: Council of Ulama condemns killing of Hafsoh Lawal, plans orientation for young Muslim scholars amid ritual concerns

The Kwara State Council of Ulama has announced plans to host an orientation programme for young Islamic scholars, focusing on the correct methods of Islamic propagation in accordance with divine principles.

This move comes as the council strongly condemns the alleged ritual killing of Hafsoh Lawal, a graduate of Kwara State College of Education, Ilorin, who was reportedly murdered and dismembered by Abdulrahman Bello for ritual purposes.

Addressing the media at the NUJ Press Centre in Ilorin, the council’s chairman and Chief Imam of Ilorin, Sheikh Muhammad Bashir Solihu, reaffirmed Islam’s absolute prohibition of taking human life unjustly.

Delivering the council’s position through Justice Salihu Olohuntoyin Muhammad, retired Grand Kadi of Kwara State, the Imam called on law enforcement agencies to ensure justice is served.

“As a council, we are deeply concerned about justice for Hafsoh and her family. While we appreciate the efforts of the Kwara State Police Command, we urge them to conduct a thorough investigation. Anyone found guilty must face the full weight of the law to serve as a deterrent to others. This will not only cleanse our society but also redirect people toward righteousness,” the council stated.

As part of its response, the Council of Ulama pledged to work with security agencies to uncover all details surrounding the case. Additionally, they announced an upcoming special programme for young Islamic scholars aimed at guiding them on the correct approach to Dawah (Islamic evangelism).

The council plans to hold a meeting with Muslim leaders and clerics to discuss preventive measures against similar crimes in the future.

It also took the opportunity to reaffirm Ilorin and Kwara State’s deep-rooted Islamic heritage, emphasizing that the region does not condone ritual practices.

“We appeal to Nigerians not to generalize or profile any community based on the criminal actions of a few individuals. Ilorin and Kwara State have long been known for their strong Islamic traditions, and ritual killings are condemned by all major religions. We must unite in the fight against such evils,” the council stated.