By Our Religious Reporter

The Jama’atu Izalatul Bid’ah Wa Iqamatus Sunnah (JIBWIS), Gombe State chapter, has strongly condemned a violent attack on its clerics and members in Birin Fulani town, Nafada Local Government Area, describing the incident as a serious threat to peace and religious freedom.

In a statement issued by the group, the incident occurred in the early hours of March 15, 2026, at about 2:30 a.m., during the holy month of Ramadan. The organization alleged that the attack was carried out by some members of the community, leading to injuries among several of its members.

Those affected include Malam Umar Shehu, Malam Dalladi Adamu, Malam Ibrahim Buba, Malam Yahya Bappa Ja’u, Malam Alkasim Muhammad, Malam Nasir Mamman, Malam Isma’il Muhammad, Malam Garkuwan Biri, and Malam Dady K.Y., among others. Many of the victims are part of the group’s emergency response unit, known as AGAJI.

JIBWIS also reported the destruction of property during the attack, including a preaching bus and several mosques belonging to the Izala movement in the area.

The statement, jointly signed by the Chairman of the State Ulama Council, Sheikh Hamza Adam Abdulhamid, and the General Secretary, Abdullahi Abubakar, described the attack as criminal and a direct threat to religious liberty, public order, and peaceful coexistence.

According to the group, dangerous weapons were allegedly used during the assault, posing a grave risk to lives and property. It further expressed concern over reports that some suspects initially arrested in connection with the incident were later released.

The organization called on the Nigeria Police Force and the Gombe State Government to conduct a thorough investigation, ensure the arrest and prosecution of those responsible, and provide adequate security for its members and places of worship, particularly ahead of the Eid celebrations.

JIBWIS also warned of rising tension in the affected community following rumours of a possible fresh attack during the forthcoming Eid prayers. It urged security agencies, community leaders, and residents to take proactive measures to prevent any breakdown of law and order.

While appealing for calm, the group advised residents to remain vigilant, law-abiding, and cautious as efforts continue to restore peace and stability in the area.

By Khalid Idris Doya

The Concerned Labour Party Northern Stakeholders have condemned what they described as “malicious, unfounded, and disgraceful” attacks by activist and publisher, Mr. Omoyele Sowore, against Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, and his family.

At a press conference held on Tuesday at Talk Town Hotel, Gura Topp, Rayfield, Jos South, Plateau State, the group strongly criticised Sowore for what they called habitual disrespect toward elders and prominent national figures.

Addressing the conference, Comrade Solomon Y. Ndam, chairman of the group, said Sowore had once again resorted to defamation, character assassination, and social media propaganda, this time targeting one of Northern Nigeria’s most respected political leaders.

“Let it be known that his latest campaign of insults is not just an attack on Governor Bala Mohammed alone, but a direct threat to the peace, dignity, and safety of his entire family,” Ndam stated.

The Concerned described Governor Bala Mohammed as a man of proven integrity, a nation-builder, and a statesman whose contributions to Nigerian politics are anchored on dedication and visible results.

“His achievements in Bauchi State, from infrastructure and education to healthcare, security, and youth empowerment, are widely acknowledged both locally and internationally,” Ndam added.

They expressed outrage that Sowore, “who has not built anything meaningful for society,” would launch such “unprovoked and shameful” attacks.

“We want Mr. Sowore to understand that the 19 Northern States are watching him keenly. We will no longer tolerate his disrespect, incitement, or threats against our leaders. If he fails to stop this campaign of hate, he will be made to dance to the music he is playing,” the group warned.

Reaffirming their position, the stakeholders said they completely dissociate themselves from Sowore’s actions.

“As Northern Labour Party members and stakeholders, we remain proud to identify with visionary leaders like Governor Bala Mohammed, who continues to serve with distinction and honour,” Concerned said.

The group also urged peace-loving Nigerians and fellow Labour Party members nationwide to condemn what they termed as abuse of free speech.

“If left unchecked, Sowore’s irresponsible conduct will continue to erode the moral foundation of our democracy.

“We stand in solidarity with Governor Bala Mohammed and his family, and we reaffirm our collective commitment to defend the dignity of credible leaders across Nigeria. Enough is enough,” they concluded.

By Garba Suleiman G.
Bauchi State

There is a time to speak, and a time to simply watch. For a while, I chose the latter. Not because I lacked words, but because I believed that silence could sometimes be a form of wisdom. I believed that the public would eventually discern between noise and substance. I believed that truth, no matter how delayed, would ultimately prevail.

But now, Omoyele Sowore has crossed a line.

In the face of deliberate misinformation, calculated attacks, and selective bitterness, silence is no longer a virtue—it becomes a license for slander. And that is why I must speak, not out of personal defense, but in response to the persistent dishonesty masquerading as activism.

Sowore has recently turned his energy towards Bauchi State, directing unwarranted attacks at its leadership—particularly Governor Bala Mohammed and his son, Shamsudeen Bala Mohammed. What began as a passing jab has snowballed into a relentless crusade fueled not by facts, but by vendetta.

It all began with a private video—a harmless, intimate moment between Shamsudeen and his wife during a birthday celebration, recorded in the privacy of their home. The video was never meant for public viewing. However, it was leaked, manipulated, and weaponized by one Dr. Ahmed, despite being cautioned to desist. But in our society, mockery sells. Dignity is ignored. And so the video spiraled into controversy.

Then came Sowore. Not as a voice of reason. Not as a defender of privacy. But as an amplifier of falsehoods. He latched onto the moment—not to foster dialogue or defend principles, but to provoke, distort, and vilify. He used Shamsudeen’s name not as a reference, but as ammunition in his broader campaign against the Governor, dragging an innocent man into a war he never signed up for.

Let’s be clear: this is not about justice. It’s not about accountability. It’s about clout.

Shamsudeen Bala Mohammed is not a politician. He does not hold public office. He is simply a private citizen who refuses to live in the shadow of his father’s achievements. Instead, he has committed himself to grassroots impact—supporting youth, empowering small businesses, and remaining present in communities often overlooked by Nigeria’s elite.

But for some, dignity is a threat. For those who thrive on outrage, such quiet service must be punished.

It is profoundly disappointing that Sowore, a man who once symbolized fearless advocacy, has reduced himself to an online instigator. He now plays judge, jury, and executioner—without facts, without balance, and without remorse. He crafts narratives with only one side in mind, and celebrates before truth has even had a chance to speak.

Bauchi State is not a playground for failed political experiments. It is not a launchpad for personal ambitions. It is a place where real governance is taking place. Governor Bala Mohammed remains focused on development, on institution-building, and on laying a legacy of lasting impact. He does not engage in online squabbles. He lets his work speak.

But when a man continually distorts facts, maligns characters, and undermines genuine efforts—just to remain relevant—there comes a time when truth must push back.

This is that time.

The people of Bauchi are not blind. They can distinguish between constructive criticism and calculated crusades. They know when someone is holding leaders accountable—and when someone is merely chasing attention.

That is why I initially paid Sowore no mind. I believed that his audience would one day ask the right questions: Where are the facts? Where is the balance? Where is the fairness?

Today, I write not to argue, but to remind. When your voice becomes a weapon, and your “truth” becomes your tool, you must carry the weight of responsibility. You must uphold the very integrity you demand from others.

Sowore has failed in that regard.

He has targeted a private citizen. He has smeared a government that is working. And he has masked personal bitterness as activism. But the people are watching. The people are wiser. And the people can decide.

In the end, the record will speak for itself.

Shamsudeen will continue his quiet service. Governor Bala Mohammed—Kaura—will continue to build. Bauchi will continue to rise.

And history—not hashtags—will remember who truly stood for progress.