Livid Katsina residents burn down man's house and car over alleged blasphemy

Thursday, February 1, 2024 – Tension has gripped the capital of Katsina State following a social media post deemed offensive by some residents.

The Facebook post, written in Hausa by a Christian indigene from the state, Mani Abubakar, reportedly contained derogatory comments about Islam.

The alleged blasphemous statement, now deleted from Facebook, claimed that Islam had no foundation and questioned the origins of the Quran.

The post sparked outrage and a mob, seeking retaliation, attempted to locate and harm Abubakar but resorted to burning his house and car at Babaruga after he escaped late Tuesday night, Jan. 30.

Abubakar’s current whereabouts remain unknown.

The Christian Association of Nigeria is working with authorities and plans to meet with the Emir of Katsina to ensure his safety when he reappears.

Christian leaders in the state have urged for calm and understanding.

The Vice Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Katsina, Venerable Muyiwa Segun, condemned any act of violence or disrespect towards other religions.

"Everyone should respect the other’s religion," Segun stated, adding, "Christians don’t have any business abusing other people’s religion. That is not how to do evangelism."

Segun also confirmed that CAN is working with security officials and religious leaders to ensure peace and safety in the community.