Imam, 4 others arrested over mob attack, death of worshipper in Osun

From Lateef Dada, Osogbo

A tragic incident occurred at the Ummu Hanni Adigun Memorial Mosque in Osogbo, where a Muslim worshipper, Najeem Hammed, was reported dead after being attacked by a mob. The confrontation broke out shortly after the Fajri prayer on Friday.

It was gathered that Najeem, provoked by the morning admonition delivered by the Imam, attempted to assault the cleric, while on the pulpit.

It was gathered that the Imam narrowly avoided the iron attack, while the congregation members swiftly intervened, subduing Najeem and removing him from the mosque to prevent further escalation.

According to eyewitness accounts, Najeem’s aggressive outburst startled the congregation.

A worshipper identified as Wahab, said: “In the midst of the morning sermon, Najeem abruptly stood up, took the microphone tripod, and attacked the Imam, who instinctively dodged. Other worshippers quickly restrained him and dragged him outside.

“During the altercation, the police were notified, and shortly afterward, officers arrived from the Ataoja Division. Najeem, who appeared motionless, was transported to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead,” Wahab said.

In the aftermath, relatives of the victim reportedly mobilise some youth, who gathered at the mosque later in the afternoon, causing chaos and preventing worshippers from attending jumat prayers.

The unrest resulted in the arrest of the Imam, along with four other worshippers.

The spokesperson of Osun State Police Command, Abiodun Ojelabi, who confirmed the arrests, noted that the individuals have been assisting with the investigation.

He also stated that police operatives have been deployed to the area to ensure that law and order are maintained.