Religious leaders in Bauchi State have warned against unverified claims linking the state government to terrorism, saying such narratives threaten the peace and stability of the state.
In a statement issued on Friday, Islamic scholars and Christian leaders urged the public to avoid spreading unverified information, cautioning that such claims could spark unrest and undermine years of peaceful coexistence in the state.
The Islamic scholars, led by Imam Abdulrahman Ibrahim Idris, emphasized that Bauchi has never served as a refuge for terrorists or bandits. They noted that the steady influx of people from neighboring states affected by insecurity highlights the relative safety of the state.
Similarly, the Bauchi chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) expressed surprise at allegations implicating Governor Bala Mohammed and the state’s Commissioner of Finance. In a joint statement signed by CAN Chairman, Rev. Dr. Abraham Damina Dimeus and Secretary Rev. Matthew Wakili Laslimbo, the association described the claims as baseless and politically motivated.
Both religious bodies commended Governor Mohammed for his efforts in maintaining peace and security, citing his support for security agencies, vigilante groups, and interfaith initiatives. They affirmed that no bandit group has ever overpowered the state’s security forces, attributing the state’s stability to both divine intervention and the governor’s proactive measures.
The clerics highlighted specific initiatives, including directives for special prayers by Islamic scholars, prompt government responses to security threats, and provision of resources such as equipment, vehicles, and funds to security agencies and vigilante groups. They cited the swift handling of a recent bandit appearance in Duguri, Alkaleri Local Government Area, as evidence of effective governance.
They also noted that Bauchi’s peaceful environment has attracted residents from conflict-affected neighboring states, resulting in population growth and the establishment of new settlements such as Maraban Liman Katagum, New Nabordo, and New Narabi to accommodate displaced persons.
Addressing the ongoing prosecution of the state’s finance commissioner by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the clerics called for fairness and justice. They cautioned politicians against using rivalry to harm innocent citizens, stressing that political conflicts ultimately affect both instigators and the wider community.
Reaffirming their confidence in Governor Mohammed, the religious leaders urged the public to reject fabricated narratives aimed at tarnishing the reputation of individuals or institutions, emphasizing that such actions could threaten Bauchi’s peace and stability.
“We have described the allegations against the Commissioner of Finance and other officials as unjust. Authorities should ensure fairness and justice in handling the matter”, the statement said.
The clerics also highlighted Bauchi’s record as one of the most peaceful states in Northern Nigeria, noting that no individual or group has ever been apprehended in possession of weapons or supplies intended for bandits. They described attempts to link the state government to terrorism as politically motivated and reaffirmed their confidence in the governor’s leadership and dedication to peace, security, and development.
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