A Catholic priest, Father Kelvin Ugwu, has publicly condemned reports that an Imam allegedly placed a monetary bounty on a pastor over claims of insulting Prophet Mohammed.
The controversy has sparked fresh debate online after allegations emerged that the cleric initially offered ₦1 million for anyone who could attack the pastor, before reportedly increasing the amount to ₦2 million.
Reacting to the reports, Father Ugwu described the development as disturbing and questioned why no decisive legal action had been taken.
He also referenced the killing of student Deborah Yakubu in Sokoto, who was attacked in 2022 after allegations of blasphemy.
According to him, the incident remains one of the country’s painful examples of religious intolerance and weak accountability.
The priest expressed concern that threats to life over religious disagreements continue to surface without swift consequences.
He said such incidents damage public confidence in justice and raise fears about freedom of expression, religious coexistence, and equal treatment under the law.
His comments have since generated strong reactions on social media, with many Nigerians divided over the broader issues of religion, security, and enforcement of the law.
Some users called for immediate investigation into any public threat to life, regardless of religious background.
Others urged caution, asking authorities to verify claims and prevent further tension.
As of the time of this report, security agencies had not issued an official statement on the alleged bounty claims.
The incident has renewed calls for stronger action against hate speech, incitement, and threats capable of endangering lives or disturbing public peace.
