Faisal Salisu Dambatta- The Kano State Shura Council has cautioned popular Islamic preacher, Sheikh Lawan Abubakar, widely known as Malam Triumph, to be mindful of his utterances during sermons following allegations of blasphemy against the Holy Prophet Muhammad (SAW).
The warning came after the committee established under the Shura Council, led by Wazirin Kano, Alhaji Sa’ad Shehu Gidado, held a lengthy session with the cleric to investigate petitions filed by several Islamic groups accusing him of making derogatory comments about the Prophet during one of his recent preachings.
The Secretary of the Committee, Shehu Wada Sagagi, confirmed that the committee initially received nine petitions, which were later narrowed down to four main allegations after preliminary scrutiny.
According to the committee, the petitions centred on remarks attributed to Malam Triumph concerning the Prophet’s birth and circumcision, which some petitioners considered blasphemous.
During the questioning session, which reportedly lasted several hours under tight security at the Department of State Services (DSS) office in Kano, the cleric defended himself, insisting that his statements were misunderstood and taken out of context.
He cited Islamic sources and historical references to justify his interpretations, maintaining that he had no intention of showing disrespect to the Prophet.
After listening to his explanations, the committee cautioned Malam Triumph to exercise restraint and sensitivity in his future sermons, especially when addressing matters directly related to the Prophet Muhammad (SAW).
“The council advised the cleric to mind his choice of words and ensure that his preachings promote unity, peace, and respect within the Muslim community,” said Malam Uwas, a member of the committee.
The Shura Council, through its secretary, Shehu Wada Sagagi, reaffirmed its earlier decision suspending Malam Triumph from preaching pending the conclusion of the investigation and submission of its final report to Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf.
Meanwhile, supporters of the embattled cleric have appealed for fairness, urging Islamic leaders and state authorities to allow room for scholarly debate and clarification, noting that theological discussions often involve diverse interpretations.
The council’s final report is expected to determine whether Malam Triumph will be cleared of the allegations or face further disciplinary action.
