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The Kwara State Council of Ulama has urged Nigerians to avoid profiling any community over the crimes of a few, following the gruesome murder of a student, Hafsoh Lawal, allegedly killed for ritual purposes by one Abdulrahman Bello.

Speaking at a press conference in Ilorin, the state capital, the council, led by the Chief Imam of Ilorin, Sheikh Mohammad Bashir Salih, emphasized that Ilorin and Kwara State should not be labeled as havens for ritualists.

“Our state is known for its strong Islamic culture, which does not condone such acts. We call on Nigerians to avoid stereotyping communities for the crimes of a few individuals in their midst.

Ritual killings are offensive to all known religions, and we must all stand against them,” Sheikh Salih stated.

The council also condemned the murder of Hafsoh Lawal, calling for a thorough police investigation and demanding that all those involved face justice.
“We urge security agencies to ensure that anyone found guilty faces the full weight of the law. This will serve as a deterrent to others with similar criminal intentions,” the Chief Imam added.

To prevent similar occurrences, Sheikh Salih announced that the council would convene a meeting with Muslim leaders and clerics to discuss ways to combat ritual killings and strengthen moral teachings.

“We will intensify efforts in preaching the true tenets of Islam and guide young scholars on the best ways to carry out dawah (Islamic evangelism). Our religion forbids the killing of another soul, and this crime is a grave offense in the sight of our Creator,” he said, citing Qur’anic verses.

The council also extended its condolences to Hafsoh Lawal’s family, describing her murder as an unpardonable offense.

Meanwhile, the religious body commended Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq for maintaining peace and stability in the state, pledging continued collaboration to ensure progress.

“The law must take its course in this matter,” the council concluded.