Sokoto Police Arrest 20 Protesters Demanding Mai Barewa’s Release
By Fahad Faruk Galadanchi
The Sokoto State Police Command has arrested about 20 youths who allegedly participated in Monday’s protest demanding the release of Islamic preacher Dahiru Mai Barewa.
The protest, which occurred in parts of Sokoto metropolis, reportedly escalated after some of the demonstrators allegedly confronted security personnel and attempted to secure Mai Barewa’s release from custody.
The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ahmed Rufai, confirmed the development on Tuesday, saying the arrested persons had been taken to court.
“About 20 persons were arrested, and they have been charged to court” Rufai said.
The protest followed a court directive ordering the re-arrest and remand of Mai Barewa over allegations that he threatened to kill two Islamic scholars, Sheikh Musa Ayyuba Lukuwa and Malam Murtala Bello Assada.
During the demonstration, protesters reportedly blocked some roads while calling for Mai Barewa’s release.
Security operatives subsequently moved in to disperse the protesters and prevent the situation from degenerating into further violence.
Sources within the police said the intervention followed an alleged attempt by some protesters to forcefully remove Mai Barewa from custody.
The allegations against Mai Barewa are reportedly linked to videos circulated on social media in which he allegedly made threats against the two clerics.
In one of the videos, he reportedly connected the alleged threat against Sheikh Lukuwa to remarks attributed to the cleric regarding the parents of Prophet Muhammad (SAW). He was also said to have discussed his disagreements with certain authorities in another video.
Assada had previously alleged that the threats were reported to security agencies, claiming that Mai Barewa had repeatedly threatened him and Sheikh Lukuwa through several videos.
The development has divided public opinion in Sokoto, with some youths calling for Mai Barewa’s release, while others have urged that the allegations be addressed through the judicial process.
The police urged residents to remain peaceful and allow the courts to determine the outcome of the case, warning against any action capable of threatening public order.
Normal activities have since resumed in the affected areas following the intervention of security personnel.
