Islamic Cleric Suspended by JIBWIS After Criticizing President Tinubu in Sermon
Sheikh Alkali Abubakar Salihu Zaria has publicly reacted to his suspension by the leadership of Jama’atu Izalatil Bid’ah Wa Iqamatis Sunnah (JIBWIS) in Jos. The suspension followed a sermon delivered by the cleric during Ramadan at Mokas Mosque in Damaturu, Yobe State, where he openly criticized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and other government officials.
Details of the Sermon and Criticism
In his powerful Ramadan exegesis, Sheikh Alkali condemned widespread insecurity, including bandit attacks and kidnapping, particularly in northern Nigeria. He also targeted corrupt government officials and north-west governors, accusing them of prioritizing political loyalty over ethical governance. Specifically, he questioned the reverence for President Tinubu, stating, "Look at how state governors fear Tinubu much more than they fear Allah. If you are in APC, you are treated like a saint. If you are a member of the opposition, you will be treated like a devil." He further labeled Tinubu as a "deceiver and a cheat," highlighting frustrations with the current administration.
JIBWIS Response and Suspension
The National Chairman of the JIBWIS Council of Ulama, Muhammad Sani Yahaya Jingir, accused Sheikh Alkali of using strongly-worded statements against individuals in the region and addressing insecurity in a manner inconsistent with the organization's established methodology. This led to his suspension, as the group sought to maintain its doctrinal and operational standards.
Sheikh Alkali's Reaction to Suspension
Reacting to the suspension via a Facebook post, Sheikh Alkali urged his followers, relatives, and associates to remain disciplined and loyal. He emphasized acceptance of divine will, stating, "This was destined to happen. I cannot exceed the days Allah has written for me to lead Ramadan Qur’anic exegesis in Damaturu. I urge you to be disciplined and loyal. What Allah has decided is the best for us." His message focused on spiritual resilience and adherence to Islamic principles amidst the controversy.
Broader Context of Political Criticism in Nigeria
This incident occurs amid a series of similar cases where individuals have faced repercussions for criticizing President Tinubu. For instance, the Arewa Consultative Forum suspended its national executive council chairman, Mamman Mike Osuman, after he advocated for a Northern presidency in 2027, citing Tinubu's economic policies as detrimental to the region. Additionally, a Lagos-based NYSC member reported receiving threatening messages for criticizing Tinubu's administration over inflation and economic hardship, reflecting a broader pattern of pushback against dissent.
Sheikh Alkali's suspension underscores ongoing tensions between religious expression and political criticism in Nigeria, highlighting challenges in balancing free speech with organizational protocols. As debates over governance and security continue, his call for acceptance of Allah's will resonates with many followers, emphasizing faith over political strife.
