The Zamfara State Police Command has commenced an investigation into a viral video allegedly showing a young man associated with Jama’atu Izalatil Bidi’a Wa Iqamatis Sunnah (JIBWIS) making calls for attacks on Christians in Enugu and Plateau states.
The suspect, identified as 22-year-old Umar Ibrahim Gandi Maradun, was apprehended by JIBWIS leaders and handed over to the police following the circulation of the footage on social media.
The Commissioner of Police, A.M. Bello, disclosed this during a press briefing in Gusau on Tuesday, saying the command was investigating the circumstances surrounding the video.
According to the police, preliminary findings indicated that the footage was recorded on Friday, October 23, while the suspect was reportedly on his way to Aliyu Ibn Abi Thalib Mosque. He was seen alongside pupils from two Islamic schools in Maradun Local Government Area.
The police identified the schools as Nurul Islam Islamiya and Akidatul Sahiha Islamiya.
Bello said the command had engaged JIBWIS leaders at the national and state levels, adding that the organisation had distanced itself from the alleged conduct.
The police said the suspect could face charges relating to alleged incitement to violence, disturbance of public peace and criminal intimidation, depending on the outcome of the investigation.
The incident has raised concerns about inflammatory religious messages circulating online, particularly those involving young people. Authorities have urged residents to remain calm, avoid spreading unverified information and promote religious tolerance.
The allegations remain under investigation, and the suspect has not been convicted of any offence.
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