NSA Reconciles Bauchi Govt, Imam Abdul’aziz

To end the lingering legal dispute between Bauchi State government and the chief imam of Dutsen Tanshi Jumma’ah Mosque, Dr Idris Abdul’aziz, the national security adviser (NSA), Malam Nuhu Ribadu has brokered a peace pact between the two parties.

LEADERSHIP learned that at the instant of the NSA, Bauchi State commissioner of police, Auwal Musa Mohammed, spearheaded the signing of the peace deal at his office in Bauchi.

The commissioner disclosed this in a statement signed by the spokesperson of the Command, Ahmed Mohammed Wakil and made available to reporters in Bauchi on Tuesday.

“In his effort and dedication to promoting peaceful coexistence and harmonious relations among the figures in the State, spearheaded a peace pact between Malam Idriss Abdulaziz and the Government of Bauchi State at the police state headquarters.

“The peace pact was signed and witnessed by the Director, Department of State Security Services (DSS), the Commandant Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and the Attorney General and Commissioner of Justice, Bauchi state,” the statement reads in part.

Musa blamed communication gap for being responsible for the deteriorating relationship between the parties, adding that it would be addressed immediately.

“Malam Idris Abdulaziz Dutsen Tanshi should understand that while he enjoys the right to freedom of speech, he should not use the pulpit as a platform to insult or make derogatory and abusive statements against preachers/clerics.

“He should strive to foster an atmosphere of peace and harmony within the community through his preaching, regardless of differences in opinion or religious beliefs. It is, therefore, imperative that he respects constituted authority henceforth,” he said.

The commissioner of police also suspended declaring Abdul’aziz wanted.

Musa commended Governor Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed for honouring the call of the NSA and other relevant stakeholders for the peace accord to come to fruition.

Recall that on 5th February 2024, the Bauchi State Police Command declared the renowned Islamic cleric, Malam Idriss Abdulaziz Dutsen Tanshi wanted, and gazetted for contempt of court following his refusal to appear before the Bauchi Shariah Court judge where he was standing trial on a one-count charge bordering on alleged disturbance of public peace.