A suspected assailant was killed by an angry crowd after allegedly stabbing a prominent Islamic cleric shortly after Juma’at prayers in Sokoto State.

The incident occurred at a mosque in the Mabera area of Sokoto metropolis, where the cleric had just concluded leading worshippers in prayer before he was attacked.

Witnesses said the suspect, who was among the congregation, allegedly stabbed the cleric in the neck during the attack, causing panic within the mosque premises.

The injured cleric was immediately rushed to a hospital for medical treatment, where he was said to be responding to care.

Following the stabbing, worshippers and supporters of the cleric reportedly overpowered and killed the suspected attacker before security operatives arrived at the scene.

The Sokoto State Police Command confirmed the incident and said investigations had commenced to determine the circumstances surrounding the attack.

Security personnel were deployed to the area to prevent a breakdown of law and order and to forestall any possible reprisal actions.

The incident triggered tension in parts of the state capital, with authorities urging residents to remain calm while investigations continue.