Security agencies across the country have been placed on high alert following a circular from the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) revealing the emergence of a new sect identified as “Achad Life Mission International.”
LEADERSHIP Sunday gathered that the new group, which is reportedly headquartered in Kaduna, is causing concern due to its unorthodox beliefs and growing influence both within Nigeria and abroad.
The intelligence report obtained by our correspondents circulated by the Office of the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) dated January 14, 2025 outlined critical details about the group’s activities and its leadership.
The circular signed by the principal staff officer to the comptroller-general of Immigration, CIS A. A. Aridegbe and circulated to zonal headquarters, state commands, border heads, directorates and training institutions of the NIS, revealed that the sect’s leader, Mr. Yokana, is based in Jos, Plateau State.
The signal further stated that the group subscribes to neither Islamic nor Christian teachings but promotes a philosophy centered on the restoration of African traditional practices and human welfare.
The circular, referenced as NIS/HQ/CGI/943/T/34, warns on the group’s growing efforts to recruit members from various regions, both inside and outside Nigeria.
“The intelligence further revealed that the sect has been canvassing for members both within and outside Nigeria…. In light of the above, you are requested to stay vigilant and report immediately any sign of the sect and where possible arrest and revert accordingly. This is for your information and strict compliance, please,” the signal said.
Additionally, there are reports that the sect may be involved in human trafficking, although this remains under investigation, LEADERSHIP Sunday further gathered.
In a response to the development, the NIS urged all security agencies to stay vigilant, immediately report any signs of the group’s activities, and, where possible, detain any individuals associated with it.
The new security threat emerged at a time when Nigeria is grappling with the ongoing menace of terrorist groups like Boko Haram, as well as increasing incidents of banditry in the northern part of the country.
Security experts are of the opinion that if allowed, the rise of Achad Life Mission International will further add to the complex security landscape, prompting authorities to enhance monitoring efforts.
Our correspondents report that when approached for comment, key law enforcement agencies in the country expressed limited awareness of the sect’s activities.
The spokesman of Plateau State Police Command, DSP Alfred Alabo, declined comment on the matter, stating, “I am not going to comment on issues that did not emanate from the command. Call the NIS who issued the circular please.”
Similarly, Major Samson Zhakom, the media officer of 3 Division of the Nigerian Army and Operation Safe Haven (OPSH), also expressed ignorance about the issue, directing inquiries back to the NIS.
When contacted, the public relations officer of the Nigeria Immigration Service Plateau State Command, Mr. Thomson Adamu, seemed perplexed by the widespread circulation of a document he described as “secret.”
Adamu confirmed that the circular did not originate from the Plateau State command, but from the NIS command in Jigawa State.
Meanwhile, the Plateau State government on its part expressed concern over the security implications of the sect’s existence. The special adviser to the governor on security said he received the circular through social media platforms.
Governor Mutfwang in a statement sent to our correspondent assured the public that the state government, in collaboration with security agencies, was actively studying the information to formulate an appropriate response.
On the other hand, the coordinator of Operation Rainbow, Brigadier-General Gakji Shipi (rtd) who oversees security in Plateau State, emphasised that the government was fully aware of the situation. He urged people of the state to remain calm and continue with their daily activities while also being vigilant. He encouraged citizens to report any suspicious activity to the authorities for swift action.
“We are currently reviewing the intelligence to determine the next steps. However, we call on the citizens to go about their business without fear or intimidation. The security agencies are on alert, and they are prepared to handle any situation that may arise,” Shipi said.
A security expert, DCG Ekarika Ndemini, told our correspondents that the emergence of Achad Life Mission International had intensified fears about the spread of non-traditional belief systems and the potential for these groups to destabilise already vulnerable regions.
Ndemini explained that the fact that the sect is actively seeking to recruit individuals within and outside Nigeria raised questions about the group’s true intentions.
He said, “Though there are no confirmed reports of violent actions associated with the group yet, authorities are taking no chances, and the situation is being treated with the utmost seriousness.
“While the NIS circular has stirred concerns, the lack of clear information from local authorities about the group’s activities has left the public uncertain about the full extent of the threat. As the investigation continues, security forces are expected to ramp up efforts to monitor and neutralise any potential risks posed by Achad Life Mission International.
“For now, Nigeria’s security apparatus, including the police, military and intelligence agencies should brace up for what could be another complex challenge in the fight against extremist and criminal groups within the country. The cooperation and vigilance of citizens will likely play a crucial role in addressing this emerging threat.”
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