Cleric sparks debate after firing gun amid death threats

Islamic cleric Sheikh Murtala Bello Asada has sparked controversy after a video surfaced showing him test-firing a firearm in a forest, following reports of alleged threats to his life.

In the video circulating on social media, Asada is seen handling and firing what appears to be a firearm in a wooded area. The cleric also displayed a double-barrel gun in photographs shared online.

The development reportedly followed threats by unidentified individuals who allegedly vowed to kill him.

In the video, Asada appeared to send a message to those he accused of being behind the threats, saying, “To hell with them; damn them.”

The footage has generated mixed reactions on social media, with some users questioning the decision by a prominent Islamic cleric to publicly demonstrate the use of a firearm.

Critics argued that publicly displaying weapons could contribute to the normalisation of civilian gun ownership and potentially encourage similar behaviour among members of the public.

One Facebook user, Ayuba Hassan, wrote: “Very soon, everyone will be carrying a gun because of fear of being attacked.”

Others, however, defended the cleric, arguing that the reported threats justified his efforts to improve his ability to protect himself.

Nazifi M Aliyu II said the cleric was right to take steps to defend himself rather than wait to be attacked.

Another user, Aminu Saidu Knaisa, also supported the position, saying self-defence was important.

Muhammad Iyadh, however, questioned the appropriateness of the action, raising concerns about whether publicly displaying a firearm was consistent with Islamic teachings and urging reliance on Allah.

The incident has reignited discussions about personal security, civilian access to firearms and the responsibility of security agencies to protect citizens facing credible threats.