A prominent Islamic cleric, Alfa Iliasu, has died following a violent attack at his residence in Ilesha-Baruba, Baruten Local Government Area of Kwara State.
Key Highlights:
The incident, which occurred on Saturday, has sparked widespread grief and outrage across the community, with residents mourning the loss of a religious figure many described as influential and respected.
According to community sources, unidentified assailants attacked the cleric at his home and inflicted severe injuries during the assault.
He was reportedly rushed to a medical facility for treatment but died before receiving medical attention due to the severity of his condition.
The circumstances surrounding the attack remain under investigation, although local sources alleged that three suspects were involved in the incident.
Tension escalated in the aftermath of the killing as angry residents took to the streets to express their anger over the cleric’s death.
Community members gathered in large numbers, demanding justice and enhanced security measures in the area.
Sources said one of the suspected attackers was killed by a mob shortly after the incident, while another suspect was apprehended and handed over to law enforcement authorities.
A third suspect reportedly escaped and remains at large.
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Residents described Alfa Iliasu as a well-known Islamic scholar whose influence extended beyond Ilesha-Baruba to neighbouring communities.
His teachings and religious activities earned him recognition across the Baruten axis, making him a prominent figure within the region.
The cleric’s death has generated strong reactions from residents, religious leaders and community stakeholders, many of whom have called on security agencies to conduct a thorough investigation and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.
Meanwhile, funeral rites for the late cleric were conducted in accordance with Islamic traditions, with his remains laid to rest at the Ilesha-Baruba Muslim Cemetery.
As of the time of filing this report, authorities had not issued an official statement on the incident.
Security operatives were, however, said to be pursuing leads aimed at apprehending the fleeing suspect and uncovering the full circumstances surrounding the attack.
