64 Islamic Scholars Killed By Boko Haram/ISWAP In Nigeria

No fewer than 64 Islamic scholars have been killed by Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) since the inception of the terrorists’ activities in Nigeria, an Islamic Scholar, Dr. Nurudeen Lemu, has said.

Lemu who is the Director Research and Training, Islamic Education Trust (Da’wah Institute of Nigeria) said the scholars were killed because they opposed and preached against the terrorists ideologies.

He told The Nation in an interview that today many scholars are afraid to counter the terrorists’ ideologies because of fear of assassination by the extremist groups.

Lemu said: “We have some very knowledgeable ulamas and scholars, but the problem is that many knowledgeable scholars who counter the arguments of Boko Haram/ISWAP have been killed by them. When you know by talking against them they will kill you, why will you talk? When the security personnel, politicians and soldiers are being killed by Boko Haram, why should you risk your life?

“On record, we have been able to tally up to 64, at least, scholars that have been killed by Boko Haram, from inception to date. They were killed because they spoke against Boko Haram. Many ulamas are naturally afraid to speak. Many have gone into hiding. Many were threatened, and some had to leave the country.”