Kano Shura Committee Suspends Sheikh Triumph Over Blasphemy Allegations

The Kano State Shura Committee has suspended popular Islamic cleric, Sheikh Lawal Shuaib Abubakar, widely known as Sheikh Triumph, from preaching and teaching pending an investigation into allegations of blasphemy.

The decision followed a series of petitions and counter-petitions submitted to the committee concerning remarks allegedly made by the cleric. Secretary of the council, Shehu Wada Sagagi, disclosed that the body reviewed both audio and video recordings linked to the allegations before reaching its decision.

Sagagi explained that the council separated credible evidence from unfounded claims and resolved to halt Sheikh Triumph’s religious activities until he appears before a disciplinary panel. “A committee has been set up to invite him for his defence. After listening to him, we will compile a report and forward it to the Kano State government for further action,” he said.

Sheikh Triumph is accused of making derogatory statements about the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) during one of his sermons — a charge considered highly sensitive under Kano’s Sharia framework. In northern Nigeria, particularly in states that enforce Islamic law, blasphemy is regarded as a grave offence that can attract severe penalties.

The Shura Committee stressed that the suspension is a precautionary measure to preserve peace and religious harmony while the case is investigated.

The cleric is barred from all public preaching, teaching, and propagation activities until the process is concluded.

The move comes amid heightened concern over blasphemy cases in Kano, where past incidents have triggered public outrage and, in some instances, violent reactions. Religious leaders and community groups are closely watching how the investigation unfolds, with many calling for fairness and restraint.

The committee’s final report and recommendations will be submitted to the Kano State government, which will decide on the next steps.