A Kano resident by name, Shafiu Aminu has set a mosque on fire at Laraba Abasawa in Gezawa Local Government Area of Kano State.
According to several newspaper reports, the incident occurred in the early hours of Wednesday and had left several worshippers injured.
Members of the community were reportedly observing the ‘Subh’ prayer when the arsonist attacked.
Meanwhile, a member of the community who asked not to be named had detailed the attack, saying that the man used petrol and lit a flame where about 40 persons were praying. He thereafter, locked the mosque after setting the place on fire.
At the time of filing this report, about 28 worshippers, who reportedly sustained serious injuries from the incident have been rushed to Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital in Kano.
Meanwhile, the culprit, Aminu willingly submitted himself to the Police after the incident, according to residents.
Why It Matters
This incident raises serious concerns about safety and security within religious communities.
The attack, which left several worshippers injured, shows the vulnerability of worshippers when they observe their ritual practices.
Aminu’s use of petrol and locking the mosque after igniting the fire shows that the action was deliberate and premeditated. Thankfully though, the swift action of the community members in rushing the injured to the hospital highlights the resilience and solidarity in times of crisis.
Bottom Line
This incident is a needed a sobering reminder of the need for enhanced security measures in a country where there’s a need for and vigilance to safeguard places of worship and protect worshippers from harm.
