News Rendezvous

Adamawa State, 27th Dec., 2024

– Sheikh Imam’s Rhetorics Inspired by Terrorism, Capable of Causing Public Unrest

The Pene Da Bwatiye Development Association Worldwide (BDA) has expressed strong condemnation of a viral video featuring one 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.
In a press conference held at its secretariat, 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.
The cleric’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, Sheikh Salihu referred to the traditional rulers as “Arne” and “Sarakunan Arna” a derogatory terms which when translated means the entire bachama people and members of the new district creates are “infidels” – and made other inflammatory comments intended to incite unrest.
Speaking on behalf of the association, James Dickson Iliya, President, the president of the association warned that such rhetoric could disrupt the peace and stability of Adamawa State and that of the country.
“This reckless and malicious utterance cannot be ignored,” the statement read. “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 the said Sheikh of attempting to provoke public outrage and incite unrest through his statements, which they described as “vexatious, seditious, and an apparent call for terrorism.”
The group emphasized the historical resilience of the Bwatiye people against oppression and called on Sheikh Salihu to respect the state’s evolving administrative reforms.
“Our ancestors resisted all forms of subjugation, including the imposition of external ideologies. Sheikh Salihu must not rekindle old conflicts that could have disastrous consequences,” they warned.
In light of the controversy, the association urged the Federal Government and relevant security agencies to take immediate action against Sheikh Salihu. Their demands included:
The immediate restraint and prevent Sheikh Salihu from making further statements capable of inciting violence.
Urged the Department of State Services, the Nigeria Police Force, and state Attorneys General to investigate and prosecute the cleric and his alleged accomplices.
Called on Sheikh Salihu to unconditionally withdraw his statements.
Demanded that the cleric be placed under constant security scrutiny to prevent future provocations.
Encouraged religious leaders to denounce the cleric’s actions and advocate for tolerance and understanding.
The association reaffirmed its commitment to peaceful coexistence and respect for the law, urging all stakeholders to prioritise unity and mutual respect.
“We must work together to build a society where everyone is treated with dignity, regardless of their beliefs or background,” the association concluded.
The association ended its press conference with a call for calm and vigilance among the people of Adamawa State to maintain peace and stability in the face of provocation.