The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) 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 video reportedly shows a young man dressed in the uniform of Jama’atu Izalatil Bidi’a Wa’ikamatus Sunnah (JIBWIS), allegedly making statements that could threaten public peace and peaceful coexistence.
The police said the Zamfara State Police Command activated its intelligence resources to identify those involved following the emergence of the video.
According to the Force, the command also engaged the leadership of JIBWIS at the national and state levels, adding that the organisation’s leadership disassociated itself from the alleged conduct and handed the suspect over to the police.
The police confirmed that Maradun had been arrested for investigation and that a comprehensive investigation into the incident was ongoing.
The Force stated that the suspect would be charged before a competent court if sufficient evidence established that an offence had been committed under the applicable law.
Reaffirming its commitment to protecting citizens irrespective of religious affiliation, the police stressed the importance of upholding the constitutional rights to freedom of thought, conscience and religion.
The Force warned that it would take appropriate lawful action against conduct capable of inciting religious hatred, provoking violence or threatening public peace.
It also urged members of the public to refrain from further sharing the video or circulating unverified information that could heighten religious tensions or threaten public order.
The police appealed to the public to remain calm and allow investigators to conclude their work.
The Nigeria Police Force reiterated its commitment to safeguarding lives and property, maintaining public order and promoting peaceful coexistence across the country.
