Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Abubakar Ahmadu Maishanu
Published on 2024-04-10 09:12:00
Idris Abdulaziz, a well-known Islamic cleric based in Bauchi, recently made headlines when he returned home after fleeing into exile due to a political feud with Governor Bala Muhammad. The intervention of the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, played a key role in facilitating his return.
The conflict between Mr. Abdulaziz and Governor Muhammad stemmed from the cleric’s public support for the governor’s political opponent, Abubakar Sadiq of the All Progressives Congress (APC), during the 2023 election. This led to a series of events, including a raid on Mr. Abdulaziz’s residence by security agents in January.
The cleric left Bauchi State to escape alleged persecution and threats of arrest and detention by the state government over charges of blasphemy. Following his departure, he was declared wanted by the police for contempt of court. However, with the intervention of Nuhu Ribadu and the resolution of the feud between Mr. Abdulaziz and the governor, the police suspended the wanted declaration.
The peace pact between Mr. Abdulaziz and the Bauchi State government, witnessed by key security and legal officials, marked a significant step towards restoring harmony. It was acknowledged that a communication gap had contributed to the crisis, and efforts were made to address this issue.
While Mr. Abdulaziz was cautioned by the police to refrain from making derogatory statements against others, his contentious remarks about certain Islamic sects had sparked controversy in the past. Despite facing backlash for criticizing Sufi scholars in a public lecture, he received support from within the Sunni sect.
The cleric’s ordeal serves as a reminder of the importance of freedom of speech and the need for mutual respect among religious communities. The resolution of his conflict with the government highlights the significance of dialogue and peaceful coexistence in a diverse society.
In conclusion, Idris Abdulaziz’s return to Bauchi after his exile signifies a positive development in the relationship between the cleric and the state government. The intervention of Nuhu Ribadu, along with the commitment to a peace pact, demonstrates a step towards reconciliation and understanding. Moving forward, it is essential for all parties to uphold mutual respect and dialogue to foster a harmonious environment for all individuals in Bauchi State.
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