A video circulating on social media shows Islamic cleric Sheikh Murtala Bello Asada conducting a firearm shooting test in a forest following reports that he had received threats to his life.
In the video, the cleric is seen firing a weapon in what appears to be a wooded area, amid growing concerns over his security.
The development comes after reports that some individuals had allegedly threatened to kill the cleric.
Sheikh Asada also appeared to send a strong message to those he said were behind the threats, declaring: “To hell with them; damn them.”
The video and pictures of him holding a double-barrel gun have triggered debate on social media, particularly over the decision by a prominent Islamic cleric to publicly demonstrate the use of a firearm.
Some Facebook users criticised the move, arguing that carrying or displaying firearms could contribute to the normalisation of gun possession in society.
However, others defended Sheikh Asada, saying the reported threats to his life could justify his efforts to learn how to protect himself.
One Facebook user, Ayuba Hassan, wrote: “Very soon, everyone will be carrying a gun because of fear of being attacked.”
Another user, Nazifi M Aliyu II, defended the cleric, saying: “What the cleric did is right because I see no reason why someone should wait for a person to come and kill him before he protects himself.”
Aminu Saidu Knaisa also supported the position, writing: “You are right. Self-defence is very important, my friend.”
However, Muhammad Iyadh questioned the action, saying it raised doubts about the cleric’s understanding of Islamic teachings and urging reliance on Allah rather than firearms.
The latest development has renewed debate over personal security, civilian access to firearms and the responsibility of security agencies to protect citizens from threats.
Islamic cleric faces criticism after displaying firearm amid security concerns