The Nigeria Police Force has arrested a 22-year-old man, Umar Ibrahim Gandi Maradun, from Maradun Local Government Area of Zamfara State, over a viral video allegedly containing statements capable of inciting religious violence.
The Force disclosed that the video showed a young man dressed in the uniform of Jama’atu Izalatil Bidi’a Wa’ikamatus Sunnah (JIBWIS), allegedly making remarks capable of threatening public peace and peaceful coexistence.
In a statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, the police said the Zamfara State Command had activated its intelligence resources to identify those involved and commenced a comprehensive investigation into the incident.
The statement said the command also engaged the leadership of JIBWIS at the national and state levels following the circulation of the video.
According to the police, the organisation’s leadership disassociated itself from the alleged conduct and handed the suspect over to the authorities.
The police said the suspect had been arrested for investigation, adding that he would be charged before a competent court if sufficient evidence established that an offence had been committed under the applicable law.
The Force reiterated its commitment to protecting all citizens, irrespective of religious affiliation, and upholding the constitutional rights to freedom of thought, conscience and religion.
It warned that appropriate lawful action would be taken against any conduct found to incite religious hatred, provoke violence or threaten public peace.
The police also urged members of the public to refrain from further sharing the video or circulating unverified information that could heighten religious tensions or undermine public order.
Residents were advised to remain calm and allow investigators to conclude their work.
The Force reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding lives and property, maintaining public order and promoting peaceful coexistence across the country.
