‘Who Is Tinubu?’ — Imam Suspended After Claiming Governors Fear Him More Than Allah
The leadership of Jama’atu Izalatil Bid’ah Wa Iqamatis Sunnah (JIBWIS) has officially suspended a prominent Islamic scholar, Sheikh Alkali Abubakar Salihu Zaria, from conducting his annual Ramadan Tafseer in Damaturu, Yobe State.
The decision has sparked intense debate across Northern Nigeria, particularly regarding the boundaries of religious sermons and political critique.
Sheikh Alkali was barred from his station at the Mokas Mosque following a high-level meeting led by the National Chairman of the JIBWIS Council of Ulama, Sheikh Muhammad Sani Yahaya Jingir.
The council cited a breach of the organization’s preaching protocols, accusing the cleric of using inflammatory language and deviating from established religious methodology during his interpretations of the Holy Qur’an.
The controversy stems from a recent session where the Sheikh launched a scathing attack on the federal government and regional leaders over the persistent insecurity in the North.
He lamented the dehumanization of citizens by bandits and kidnappers, painting a grim picture of the suffering endured by victims during the holy month.
The cleric specifically targeted the relationship between state governors and the presidency, suggesting a misplaced sense of priority among the political elite.
During his address, he remarked: “One of the signs of catastrophes this generation will likely face is the tendency to revere individuals out of fear of their machinations.”
He further questioned the integrity of the ruling class, stating: “Look at how state governors fear Tinubu much more than they fear Allah. If you are in the APC, you are treated like a saint. If you are a member of the opposition, you will be treated like a devil. One will be confronted with trump-up charges. Who is Tinubu? You deceived us. You are a deceiver and cheat.”
Addressing the breakdown of law and order, the cleric added: “Today, people are abducted and traded as though they are cattle. Somebody will be abducted and taken to bush. They then negotiate the ransom. Families implore, even though the abductors are complete ignorant. They will beat and kick their victims. Often they will stamp their feet on their victim’s stomach in Ramadan.”
Following the announcement of his suspension, Sheikh Alkali took to social media to address his congregants. He maintained a calm demeanor, urging his supporters to accept the leadership’s decision without protest.
He noted that his time at the Mokas Mosque was destined to end as decreed by God, and he reaffirmed his respect for Sheikh Jingir, whom he described as a father figure.
“To my followers, relatives and associates, I urge you to take heart. 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,” the cleric wrote on his Facebook page.
The incident has divided public opinion on social media. While some users praised the Sheikh for “speaking truth to power” and representing the voice of the masses, others criticized his approach. Detractors argued that the pulpit should not be used for political grandstanding or “theatrical” performances.
Supporters of the cleric argued that religious leaders are the last line of defense for the poor, while critics maintained that the Mosque must remain a place of worship rather than a platform for political agitation.
