Tension in Bauchi as Police foil clash between Islamic sects

The Bauchi State Police Command on Friday swiftly averted what could have escalated into a violent clash between two Islamic sects, mere hours after the passing of renowned Islamic cleric, Dr Abdulaziz Idris Dutsen-Tanshi.

The newly appointed Commissioner of Police in the state, Mr Sani-Omolori Aliyu, promptly called for calm and directed the State Intelligence Department, SID, to commence a thorough and discreet investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.

According to a statement issued on Saturday by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, CSP Ahmed Wakili, tension arose following inflammatory remarks allegedly made by Ahmad Isa Jaja, Chief Imam of the Galli Mosque, during his Friday sermon on 4th April 2024 at approximately 2:45 p.m.—the same day Dr Abdulaziz and Idris Dutsen-Tanshi was laid to rest.

The sermon, delivered in the Jahun area of Bauchi Metropolis, was considered offensive by followers of the late cleric, who in response stormed the mosque in protest.

Acting swiftly, the Police Commissioner deployed a tactical unit led by the Divisional Police Officer of Dutsen-Tanshi Division to the scene. The officers succeeded in de-escalating the situation, safeguarding both the Imam and members of the congregation, and dispersing the agitated crowd peacefully.

The Imam was subsequently taken into protective custody, while the SID was instructed to undertake a comprehensive inquiry into the matter.

Commissioner Aliyu underscored the responsibility of religious leaders to wield their freedom of expression with caution and integrity. He urged them to refrain from making inflammatory, abusive, or derogatory statements from the pulpit, stressing their pivotal role in fostering peace, mutual respect, and tolerance across religious and sectarian lines.