The leadership of Jama’atu Izalatil Bid’ah Wa Iqamatis Sunnah (JIBWIS) has formally suspended a prominent Islamic cleric, Sheikh Alkali Abubakar Salihu Zaria, from delivering his annual Ramadan Tafseer in Damaturu, Yobe State.
Sheikh Alkali was prevented from continuing his Tafseer sessions at the Mokas Mosque after a high-level meeting convened by the National Chairman of the JIBWIS Council of Ulama, Sheikh Muhammad Sani Yahaya Jingir.
According to the council, the decision followed an alleged breach of the organisation’s preaching guidelines.
The cleric was accused of employing inflammatory language and straying from the established methodology of Qur’anic interpretation.
The controversy arose from a recent Tafseer session during which Sheikh Alkali strongly criticised the federal government and regional authorities over the ongoing insecurity in the North.
He decried the worsening plight of citizens at the hands of bandits and kidnappers, describing in stark terms the suffering endured by victims, even during the holy month of Ramadan.
He also faulted what he described as the posture of state governors in their dealings with the presidency, suggesting that political loyalty had overshadowed accountability.
He stated: “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 said: “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 trumped-up charges. Who is Tinubu? You deceived us. You are a deceiver and cheat.”
Speaking on insecurity, he added: “Today, people are abducted and traded as though they are cattle. Somebody will be taken into the bush and ransom negotiated. Families plead desperately. Victims are beaten and brutalised. Some are kicked and trampled upon, even during Ramadan.”
Following news of his suspension, Sheikh Alkali addressed his followers on social media, maintaining a measured tone and urging restraint.
He called on his supporters to accept the decision peacefully, describing it as part of divine destiny.
He also reaffirmed his respect for Sheikh Jingir, referring to him as a father figure.
“To my followers, relatives and associates, I urge you to remain steadfast. This was destined to happen.
“I cannot exceed the days Allah has written for me to lead Ramadan Qur’anic exegesis in Damaturu. Be disciplined and loyal. What Allah has decreed is best for us,” he wrote on his Facebook page.
