The Zamfara State Police Command has arrested a 22-year-old man, Umar Ibrahim Gandi Maradun, over a viral video allegedly containing threats of violence against Christians in Enugu and Plateau states.
Commissioner of Police A.M. Bello announced the arrest during a press briefing in Gusau on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, following public outrage over the recording.
According to the police, the video showed a group of youths participating in a procession, during which Maradun allegedly chanted words calling for firearms to attack Christian communities.
The suspect appeared in the uniform of the First Aid Group of Jama’atu Izalatil Bidi’a Wa’ikamatus Sunnah (JIBWIS), an Islamic organisation whose leadership has since condemned the remarks.
Bello said preliminary investigations established that the footage was recorded on Friday, October 23, in Maradun Local Government Area.
The suspect was reportedly travelling with other youths to Aliyu Ibn Abi Thalib Mosque, where they were expected to assist with security arrangements during Friday prayers and preaching.
Police identified two Islamic schools, Nurul Islam Islamiya and Akidatul Sahiha Islamiya, whose pupils reportedly appeared in the recording.
Following the video’s circulation, the command launched an intelligence operation to identify those involved and determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Security officials subsequently contacted JIBWIS leaders at the national and state levels.
The organisation reportedly apprehended Maradun and handed him over to the police for investigation.
Bello identified the suspect as a native of Maradun who joined JIBWIS in 2025 and recently gained admission to study Mass Communication at Zamfara State University.
He said investigators were examining possible offences involving incitement to violence, criminal intimidation and disturbance of public peace.
The commissioner added that the suspect could face prosecution under relevant provisions of the Penal Code Law applicable in Zamfara if the investigation establishes sufficient evidence.
Meanwhile, JIBWIS National Chairman Abdullahi Bala-Lau rejected any association between the organisation and the alleged threats.
He maintained that incitement to religious violence contradicted JIBWIS’s teachings and objectives.
Bala-Lau also stressed that wearing the organisation’s uniform did not confer authority to speak on its behalf.
He called for a thorough investigation by the police and other security agencies, including the Department of State Services.
The police commissioner assured Nigerians that the command remained committed to protecting citizens irrespective of their religious affiliations.
He urged religious leaders, parents, schools and community organisations to discourage inflammatory statements and promote peaceful coexistence.
Bello also cautioned members of the public against circulating unverified information or taking actions capable of escalating religious tensions.
The suspect remains under investigation, and the police said appropriate charges would be filed upon completion of their inquiries.
Ezeana Emmanuel
