The Sokoto State Police Command has arrested about 20 people following a protest in parts of Sokoto metropolis over the continued detention of Islamic cleric, Dahiru Barewa.
The demonstration, which took place on Monday, reportedly became tense after some of the protesters allegedly attacked security personnel and attempted to secure Barewa’s release from custody.
The protesters had taken to the streets to demand the cleric’s release, blocking some roads and disrupting movement in parts of the state capital before security operatives moved in to restore order.
The police spokesperson in Sokoto State, DSP Ahmed Rufai, confirmed the arrests while speaking with journalists on Tuesday.
He said the suspects had already been arraigned before a court.
“About 20 persons were arrested in connection with the protest, and they have been charged to court,” Rufai said.
The protest followed a court directive for the re-arrest and remand of Barewa, who is accused of issuing threats against two Islamic scholars, Sheikh Musa Ayyuba Lukuwa and Malam Murtala Bello Assada.
The allegations are linked to videos circulated on social media in which Barewa was purportedly heard making threats against the two clerics.
Barewa reportedly connected the alleged threat against Lukuwa to remarks attributed to the cleric regarding the parents of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), while also making references to disagreements with certain authorities.
Assada had previously said the alleged threats were reported to security agencies, claiming that Barewa had repeatedly threatened him and Lukuwa in separate videos.
Police intervention became necessary after the demonstration allegedly grew disorderly, raising concerns about a possible escalation and further disruption of public order.
Rufai said the police had followed due legal procedures in dealing with those arrested and urged residents to channel grievances through lawful means.
He also appealed to residents to remain calm and obey the law, assuring that the command would continue to take steps to protect lives and property.
Normal activities have reportedly resumed in the affected parts of Sokoto metropolis, although security personnel remain vigilant to prevent a recurrence of the unrest.
