Zamfara State Police have arrested 22-year-old Umar Ibrahim Gandi Maradun, a member of the Jama’atu Izalatil Bid’ah Wa’Ikamatis Sunnah (JIBWIS), over a viral video showing him teaching children to chant for rifles to kill Christians in Jos and Enugu. The arrest follows the circulation of footage that sparked concern over its apparent call for religious violence.
Arrest and Video Details
The suspect was arrested after the footage emerged online. According to a translation provided by The Yoruba Times, the video shows children being taught to call for attacks on Christians, with one line stating: “He Should Be Given an AK-47. He Would Then Go to Enugu, the Land of the Infidels, on Sunday When They Are Worshipping and Clapping, and Open Fire to Kill Them.”
Police said preliminary findings indicated that the video was recorded on Friday, October 23, 2026, as the suspect was on his way to Aliyu Ibn Abi Thalib Mosque to provide security during Friday prayers and preaching. The footage reportedly shows children from two Islamic schools in Maradun Local Government Area of Zamfara State alongside the suspect. The schools were identified as Nurul Islam Islamiya and Akidatul Sahiha Islamiya.
Background of the Suspect
The police said the suspect joined JIBWIS in 2025 and had recently gained admission to study Mass Communication at Zamfara State University in Talata Mafara.
Zamfara State Commissioner of Police A.M. Bello said an investigation had been launched into the incident. Police said the suspect could be charged if the investigation establishes sufficient evidence. The alleged offences under consideration include incitement to violence, disturbance of public peace and criminal intimidation under provisions of the Zamfara Penal Code Law.
Reactions from JIBWIS and Amnesty International
JIBWIS has distanced itself from the video, condemning the remarks and calling for an investigation. The organisation’s national chairman, Abdullahi Bala-Lau, said the comments did not reflect its values and stressed that wearing the group’s uniform did not necessarily mean the individual was speaking on its behalf.
Amnesty International also called for an investigation, raising concerns about children being exposed to messages encouraging violence. The rights organisation urged authorities to ensure accountability and protect children from manipulation and indoctrination into violence.
Wider Concerns and Next Steps
The arrest comes amid wider concerns about religious intolerance and the spread of inflammatory content on social media. Police have not announced the outcome of their investigation, and the suspect has not been convicted of any offence.
