Protests have erupted in Katsina State, northern Nigeria, following the court appearance of a man accused of insulting Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) in Facebook posts allegedly published in 2024.
The accused, identified in local reports as Mani Abubakar, is a Christian from Katsina State. He is alleged to have published posts in Hausa in January 2024 containing remarks many Muslims regarded as insulting to Islam and Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
The case resurfaced this week when Abubakar reportedly appeared before a court in the Kofar Soro area of Katsina metropolis. News of the hearing sparked demonstrations by Muslim youths, who gathered near the court and police facilities demanding action.
According to local reports, the original incident in 2024 triggered heightened tensions, with Abubakar and members of his family reportedly forced into hiding after the posts circulated online. His home and vehicle were also allegedly damaged.
Videos circulating on social media showed demonstrators chanting: “He was insulting the Prophet. We can’t accept it. Bring him out, let’s serve him justice.”
In another widely shared video, a protest leader called on authorities to kill Abubakar and warned that protesters would do so themselves if he was released.
Security was significantly reinforced around the Kofar Soro roundabout, the court precinct and other strategic locations across Katsina metropolis as crowds gathered. Authorities reportedly placed the accused in protective custody while legal proceedings and investigations continue.
The Katsina State Police Command also held consultations with religious and traditional leaders, including representatives of the Katsina Emirate Council, in an effort to de-escalate tensions and maintain public order.
Police appealed to religious leaders and community figures to encourage calm and lawful conduct, stressing that Islam does not condone the unlawful killing of any person. Tactical units and intelligence personnel were also deployed across parts of the city to monitor developments and prevent further unrest.
The alleged Facebook posts have since been deleted, while authorities have not publicly released detailed information about the specific charges facing Abubakar.
As of Friday, security remained on high alert across parts of Katsina as residents awaited further updates from police and the courts.
