Zamfara Police Arrest 22-Year-Old Over Viral Video Allegedly Calling for Killing of Christians

The Zamfara State Police Command has arrested a 22-year-old man, Umar Ibrahim Gandi Maradun, over a viral video in which he allegedly called for weapons to kill Christians in Enugu and Plateau states.

The Commissioner of Police, A.M. Bello, disclosed the arrest during a press briefing in Gusau on Tuesday, saying investigations had commenced to establish the circumstances surrounding the video and determine the appropriate legal action.

In the footage circulating on social media, the suspect, reportedly wearing the uniform of Jama’atu Izalatil Bidi’a Wa’ikamatus Sunnah (JIBWIS), Zamfara State Chapter, is heard chanting, “Give us rifles to go and kill infidels.” He was also seen alongside pupils from two Islamic schools in Maradun Local Government Area.

According to the police, preliminary findings indicated that the video was recorded on Friday, October 23, 2026, while the suspect was reportedly travelling to Aliyu Ibn Abi Thalib Mosque. Police said he and others allegedly provided security during Friday prayers and preaching.

The command identified the schools associated with the incident as Nurul Islam Islamiya and Akidatul Sahiha Islamiya, both located in Maradun, approximately 120 kilometres from Gusau, the state capital.

Police said they engaged JIBWIS leaders at both national and state levels after the video emerged. According to the command, the organisation disassociated itself from the suspect’s alleged conduct and the contents of the footage before apprehending him and handing him over to the police.

The suspect, a native of Maradun Local Government Area, was born on September 15, 2004. Police said he attended Mualledi Model Primary School and Government Day Secondary School in Maradun, joined JIBWIS in 2025 and recently gained admission to study Mass Communication at Zamfara State University, Talata Mafara.

Bello said the command was conducting a comprehensive investigation and would charge the suspect before a competent court when the process was concluded. He said possible charges could relate to alleged incitement to violence, disturbance of public peace and criminal intimidation under Sections 77, 78 and 380(b) of the Penal Code Law applicable in Zamfara State, subject to the evidence gathered and applicable law.

The police commissioner condemned conduct capable of promoting religious hatred or threatening community safety. He reaffirmed the command’s commitment to protecting residents of all religious affiliations and urged religious leaders, parents, school authorities and community stakeholders to promote tolerance and mutual respect.

Bello also appealed to the public to remain calm, avoid spreading unverified information and refrain from actions that could heighten religious tensions or disturb public order.