Imam’s Venomous Rhetoric: A Threat to National Security – Arrest Him Now Before It’s Too Late, BDA tells FG

By Treasure Moses

The Pene Da Bwatiye Development Association Worldwide (BDA) has strongly condemned a viral video featuring Sheikh Salihu Imam, accusing him of making hate-filled and inflammatory remarks against the Executive Governor of Adamawa State, Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, and revered traditional rulers of Hama Batta and Hama Bachama. The association described Sheikh Salihu’s remarks as divisive and a direct attack on the traditions, faith, self-esteem, identity, and the style of governance of the state by Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri.

Sheikh Salihu’s statements reportedly criticized the newly enacted District Creation Law of 2024, which he claimed undermined the authority of the Lamido of Adamawa. The association alleged that the video featured Sheikh Salihu referring to the traditional rulers as “Arne” and “Sarakunan Arna”, derogatory terms that translate to the entire Bachama people and members of the new district being “infidels”. He also made other inflammatory comments intended to incite unrest.

Sheikh Salihu referring to the traditional rulers as “Arne” and “Sarakunan Arna”, derogatory terms that translate to the entire Bachama people and members of the new district being infidels

The president of the association, James Dickson Iliya, warned that such rhetoric could disrupt the peace and stability of Adamawa State and the country. He stated that the reckless and malicious utterance cannot be ignored, and the deliberate hate speech and incitement to violence pose a serious threat to public order, harmonious coexistence, and the rule of law.

The association accused Sheikh Salihu of attempting to provoke public outrage and incite unrest through his statements, which they described as “vexatious, seditious, and an apparent call for terrorism”. They emphasized the historical resilience of the Bwatiye people against oppression and called on Sheikh Salihu to respect the state’s evolving administrative reforms.

Take immediate action against Sheikh Salihu, demanding that he be restrained from making further statements capable of inciting violence

The BDA urged the Federal Government and relevant security agencies to take immediate action against Sheikh Salihu, demanding that he be restrained from making further statements capable of inciting violence. They also called for the Department of State Services, the Nigeria Police Force, and state Attorneys General to investigate and prosecute the cleric and his alleged accomplices.

The association encouraged religious leaders to denounce Sheikh Salihu’s actions and advocate for tolerance and understanding. They reaffirmed their commitment to peaceful coexistence and respect for the law, urging all stakeholders to prioritize unity and mutual respect. The BDA concluded by stating that everyone should work together to build a society where everyone is treated with dignity, regardless of their beliefs or background.

The BDA’s call for action against Sheikh Salihu is a step in the right direction, and it is essential for the government and security agencies to take immediate action to prevent further unrest and promote peaceful coexistence.