Islamic leaders in Kwara State, under the aegis of the Kwara State Council of Ulama, have condemned the murder of 24-year-old Hafsah Lawal by a self-proclaimed cleric, Abdulrahman Bello, for ritual.

In a chat with newsmen in Ilorin, the state capital on Tuesday, the council, led by the Chief Imam of Ilorin, Sheikh Mohammad Bashir Solih, emphasised the need for justice, urging the police to conduct a thorough investigation.

“We insist that the law must take its course. Anyone found guilty should be brought to book to serve as a deterrent to others,” Sheikh Solih said.

Other scholars present included the Chief Imam of Offa, Sheikh Muyideen Salman Hussein; former NAHCON national secretary, Professor Lanre Badmas; and the council’s secretary, retired Justice Salihu Olohuntoyin Mohammed.

They reaffirmed their commitment to seeking justice for Hafsah and her family.

The council cautioned against profiling any community based on the actions of a few individuals.

“Ilorin and Kwara State are not home for ritualists. We are known for our Islamic values, which reject such practices. Nigerians should avoid generalising or stereotyping communities for the sins of a few,” they said.

As part of their efforts to prevent future occurrence, the council announced plans to hold a sensitisation programme for young clerics on proper Dawah (Islamic propagation).

The council expressed condolences to Hafsah’s grieving family and commended Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq for his efforts in maintaining peace and coexistence in the state.