A Sokoto-based Islamic cleric, Sheikh Muhammad Bello Aliyu Yabo has advised the people of the state and his followers to device means of defending themselves against attacks, killings and kidnapping by bandits.
The prominent preacher was captured in a two-minutes viral video brandishing a gun during a preaching session.
In the clip, Yabo pulled out the gun and told the congregation that he is prepared against any form of attack on his life. He also said that he is not afraid of dying.
However, stating that there would be consequences for anyone who dared attack him, Yabo said such individual might not live to tell the story,
“I am not afraid of dying tonight,” Yabo said in Hausa language.
“But anyone who tries to come for my life had better come prepared, because I am ready for any attack, you can see the sign in my hand.”
Brandishing the gun to his congregation, he added, “As long as I hold this, I don’t think anyone with a knife can touch me – not even if they are drunk. But if they try, I’m ready.”
Sokoto is one of the states across the North West region of Nigeria which has suffered numerous attacks by bandits.
These attacks have led to series of gruesome killings, kidnappings for ransoms and even outright destruction of homes and properties in the state.