Expresses surprise over allegation of terrorism financing against Governor Bala Mohammed
By Suzan Edeh, Bauchi
The Bauchi State chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), has called for caution in the ongoing prosecution of some officials of Bauchi State Government by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) as it relates to the issue.
The assertion was contained in a statement jointly signed by the CAN Chairman, Rev Dr. Abraham Damina Dimeus and Secretary, Rev Matthew Wakili Laslimbo, copies of which were made available to Journalists in Bauchi on Thursday.
“We have keenly and diligently followed recent events as they unfold regarding the allegations of financing terrorism leveled against Bauchi State Governor, Sen Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, CON, (Kauran Daular Usmaniyya), by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
“Ordinarily and as a religious body, that has no affiliation with politics or political activities, we would have kept quiet and watch as things go by. But, as citizens of Nigeria and residents of Bauchi State, it is our responsibility to state what we know and sure of.”
“In as much as we are not challenging any authority over its functions and responsibilities, we are of the opinion that caution needs to be applied in situations in order not to make matters worse.”
“As residents of Bauchi State, we are witnesses of the pragmatic steps and relentless commitments of our amiable Governor on issues relating to security in the State. People are peacefully coexisting irrespective of ethno-religious differences. No religious crisis whatsoever since 2019 when he became the Governor,” CAN stressed.
“We are therefore surprised to learn that Sen Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed is financing terrorism. To us, these claims is baseless, malicious, and an affront to truth and the image of our dear State, which is rated as one of the most peaceful States in Northern Nigeria amidst ravaging attacks by bandits and terrorists in the Country.”
“His Excellency, Governor Bala Mohammed has consistently demonstrated commitment to inter-faith harmony, support for Christian institutions and events, fairness and justice on human rights and dedication to peace and security of the Bauchi State.”
“To us as a group, these claims are politically motivated and can be seen as political persecution as well as an orchestrated plan by the enemies of Bauchi State to plunge the State into total chaos and attacks for their political gains.”
“Furthermore, we regard the claims as false and political vendetta championed by some individuals outside of the State in collaboration with fraudulent individuals from within who are bent on tarnishing the image of Bauchi State and Governor Bala Mohammed as a way to exonerate themselves from the crimes they have committed against the State and our corporate existence as citizens of Bauchi State.”
“As Christians whose aim is to promote unity and peaceful coexistence among diverse religions, we condemn these claims in strong terms and also resist any attempt that is capable of disrupting the relative peace we are enjoying in Bauchi State.”
“Moreover, we debunk the rhetoric aimed to drag the hard-earned reputation of Governor Bala Mohammed in the mud, as an opposition leader in the political arena of the country, knowing him as a person with high integrity that is detribalized and religious tolerant” CAN said.
CAN said that it acknowledges Governor Bala Mohammed’s efforts in promoting unity and development in Bauchi State, adding that the state chapter of the association is standing with him against all the unfounded claims and reaffirm our trust in his leadership.
CAN urged the public to disregard the false claims and stand with Governor Bala Mohammed as he continues to serve Bauchi State with dedication.
“Once again, we categorically wish to state that the entire Christians in Bauchi State are satisfied and felt protected by the administration of Governor Bala Mohammed more than any time in the history of the State since his emergence as Governor in 2019 to date, he has been the most Christian-friendly Governor.”It said
