Tijjaniyya Raises Concern Over Detention, Trial of Sheikh Abdulkadir Khalifa Zaria

The Tijjaniyya Sufi Order has expressed deep concern over the detention and ongoing prosecution of its prominent leader, Sheikh Abdulkadir Sani Khalifa Zaria, describing the development as troubling for its members across Nigeria and beyond.

In a statement issued to journalists in Abuja, the National Vice Chairman of the Tijjaniyya Shura Council of Nigeria, Sheikh Ibrahim Maihula, emphasised the group’s longstanding commitment to peace, justice, and the rule of law.

The group noted that the Tijjaniyya Order, regarded as one of the largest Islamic movements in West Africa with millions of followers, holds the detained cleric in high esteem for his teachings on discipline, lawful conduct, and spiritual guidance.

According to the statement, events leading to the cleric’s detention began on 30 November 2025, when he visited Jaiz Bank Plc in Zaria, Kaduna State, for a routine banking transaction.

“He was informed that his account had been placed on Post No Debit (PND) status and was directed to resolve the issue at the bank’s headquarters in Abuja.

“On 11 December 2025, upon arriving at the bank’s Abuja office, the cleric was allegedly arrested by operatives later identified as personnel of the Defence Intelligence Agency.

“His detention reportedly took place without immediate access to his family, legal counsel, or medical care, raising concerns among followers and relatives,” the statement read.

The group stated that the cleric was held incommunicado for nearly four months until 25 March 2026, when he was granted limited access to his legal Team after being transferred to the custody of the Department of State Services.

In response, his legal representatives filed a fundamental rights enforcement suit against several institutions, including the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, the DIA, the Attorney General of the Federation, and Jaiz Bank.

The statement added that on 20 April 2026, the Federal High Court in Abuja, presided over by Justice Peter Lifu, ordered the immediate and unconditional release of the cleric.

It noted that the court ruled his detention violated constitutional provisions and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, and awarded N6 million in damages and directed the bank to lift restrictions on his account.

However, despite the ruling, the Federal Government filed a 13-count charge a day later, accusing the cleric and five others of plotting to wage war against Nigeria and engaging in terrorism-related activities.

The group further stated that on 22 April 2026, the cleric was arraigned before the Federal High Court in Abuja, presided over by Justice Joyce Abdulmalik.

He pleaded not guilty to all charges, and the case was adjourned to 27 April 2026 for trial. During proceedings, he reportedly stated that he was meeting his co-defendants for the first time in court.

The Tijjaniyya Order reaffirmed its confidence in Nigeria’s judicial system, expressing hope that the cleric would be discharged and acquitted.

It also urged its followers nationwide to remain calm, law-abiding, and prayerful, while avoiding statements that could interfere with ongoing legal proceedings.

The group acknowledged support from various Islamic organisations, civil society groups, religious leaders, and members of the public, expressing gratitude for their solidarity during the period.