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By Billy Graham Abel, Yola
A group, Pene Da Bwatiye Development Association Worldwide has expressed strong condemnation of a viral video featuring one Sheikh Salihu Imam, accusing him of making hate-filled and inflammatory remarks against the Governor of Adamawa State, Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, and traditional rulers of Hama Batta and Hama Bachama.
At a press conference held at its secretariat, the association described Sheikh Salihu’s remarks as divisive and a direct attack on its traditions, faith, self esteem, identity and Governor Fintiri.
The cleric’s statements reportedly criticised the newly enacted District Creation Law of 2024, which he claimed undermined the authority of the Lamido of Adamawa.
The association alleged that in the video, Sheikh Salihu referred to the traditional rulers as “Arne” and “Sarakunan Arna” derogatory terms which when translated mean “infidels,” adding that he made other inflammatory comments intended to incite unrest.
Speaking on behalf of the association, James Dickson Iliya, president of the association, warned that such rhetoric could disrupt the peace and stability of Adamawa State and that of the country.
“This reckless and malicious utterance cannot be ignored,” the statement read. “The deliberate hate speech and incitement to violence pose a serious threat to public order, harmonious co-existence, and the rule of law.”
The association accused the said Sheikh of attempting to provoke public outrage and incite unrest through his statements, which they described as “vexatious, seditious, and an apparent call for terrorism.”
The group emphasised the historical resilience of the Bwatiye people against oppression and called on Sheikh Salihu to respect the state’s evolving administrative reforms.
“Our ancestors resisted all forms of subjugation, including the imposition of external ideologies. Sheikh Salihu must not rekindle old conflicts that could have disastrous consequences,” the members warned.
In the light of the controversy, the association urged the Federal Government and relevant security agencies to take immediate action against Sheikh Salihu.
