BY ADEYEMI AKANJI – The Bauchi State Government has wielded the big stick against an Islamic preacher, Malam Abubakar Idris, of Azare in Katagum Local Government Area for inciting preaching capable of inciting members of the public.
The suspension of the preacher was contained in a statement issued by the Ministry of Religious Affairs, Community Relations and Social Welfare which accused Idris of castigating the companions of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) while conducting his preaching.
The suspension letter which was referenced MORA&CR/S/OFF/04/II/26 and dated 27th April, 2021 was signed by Alhaji Ahmad Aliyu Jalam the Commissioner in charge of the ministry.
The letter titled: ‘VIOLATION OF THE ETHICS OF PREACHING AND SERMONS IN THE STATE’ rstates in part; “The attention of the Bauchi State Government has been drawn to the manner of your preaching and sermons. “This attitude is a clear violation of the conduct and ethics of preaching, that is capable of raising people’s tension and certainly leads to the violation of law and order which the Government may not tolerate.
“Consequently, you are suspended from conducting preaching and leading congregational prayers in any part of the State in the interest of peace,” the letter states.
The Bauchi Government therefore advised Idris to abide by the instruction in his own interest, stressing that Security Agencies have been directed to ensure strict compliance.
