A Bauchi imam would be biting his fingers now in regret over agreeing to lead prayers at a rally of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
The performance of the solemn religious duty has earned him a suspension and heavy reprimand from higher quarters.
The lot of the Islamic cleric was brought to light by Former Vice President and Presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Alhaji Atiku Abubakar.
Though the name of the Imam was not available at the time of reporting, Abubakar however used the opportunity of a courtesy visit to the Emir of Bauchi, Alhaji Rilwanu Suleiman Adamu, to bring the matter to light.
He spoke against what he described as witch-hunting those who associate with opposition parties, saying the Imam tasted the bitter experience yesterday after leading a congregational prayer he attended.
“Your Royal Highness, for me, this is my home. I came to the palace to pay my respect and honor to our royal father.”
“I want to ask a question: Why do politicians return to traditional institutions to seek titles after leaving public office?
“Whether you are a president, governor, senator or minister, once you finish your tenure, you return to the palace to receive a traditional title because this is our root and our future.
“We really appreciate this opportunity to visit and pay our respect to Your Highness in Bauchi,” he said.
“I want to specially thank the Governor of Bauchi State for his hospitality to us because, in many places we visit, they do not allow us to see the traditional rulers.
“They do not allow us to pay our respects to them; instead, they block us.
“The ugly trend has reached a point where an imam at a mosque where I prayed was suspended by the governor.
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“This prompted me to ask: In the history of Northern Nigeria, I know that an imam is under the authority of the paramount traditional ruler, the Emir, and not the governor, because a governor will complete his tenure and leave office, while the Emir remains in his position.
“Because of the growing lack of respect for traditional institutions, disregard for due process and abuse of established procedures, politicians are now encroaching on the jurisdiction of the Emir. I swear to God this will not happen under my watch.
“Even the colonial masters, when they came, met our traditional rulers leading our scholars, clerics and other traditional institutions.
“I want to assure Your Royal Highness that we have no intention of changing the history of our people. I pray Allah to give us the opportunity and the will to do what is right.”
Our Reporter
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