The Sokoto State Police Command has arrested about 20 protesters following a demonstration in parts of Sokoto metropolis over the court-ordered remand of Dahiru Mai Barewa, who is facing allegations of threatening to kill two Islamic scholars.

The protest, which took place on Monday, reportedly became tense after some youths allegedly attacked security personnel and attempted to forcefully secure Mai Barewa’s release from custody.

The protesters had gathered to demand the immediate release of the suspect, with some reportedly blocking roads and disrupting movement in parts of the state capital.

Confirming the arrests, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ahmad Rufai, said approximately 20 suspects were apprehended in connection with the incident.

Rufai said the suspects had subsequently been charged to court.

According to police sources, security personnel moved in after the protesters allegedly became unruly and attempted to gain access to Mai Barewa and remove him from custody.

The demonstration followed a court order directing the re-arrest and remand of Mai Barewa over alleged threats against Islamic scholars Sheikh Musa Ayyuba Lukuwa and Malam Murtala Bello Assada.

The allegations reportedly stemmed from videos circulated on social media in which Mai Barewa was allegedly heard making threats against the two clerics.

Mai Barewa was said to have linked the alleged threat against Sheikh Lukuwa to comments attributed to the cleric regarding alleged blasphemous remarks concerning the parents of Prophet Muhammad (SAW).

The suspect also reportedly made references to disagreements involving some authorities.

The development has heightened tension in Sokoto, with authorities warning against actions capable of disrupting public order or undermining the judicial process.

The police have yet to disclose the identities of all the arrested protesters or provide details of the specific charges filed against them.