The State Security Service (SSS) has questioned Sheikh Auwal Shariff, a prominent Zaria-based Islamic cleric, for his outspoken criticism of President Bola Tinubu’s administration and the economic challenges facing Nigeria. Sheikh Shariff, known for his vocal dissent against political figures, was interrogated on Friday and subsequently released the same day.
Reports indicate that the cleric’s critique of President Tinubu’s governance style and economic policies attracted the attention of security operatives. In one of his sermons, Sheikh Shariff likened the power transition between former President Muhammadu Buhari and Mr. Tinubu to that of Pharaoh and Haman, denouncing their leadership as synonymous. He specifically criticized President Tinubu’s decision to hastily remove petrol subsidies, highlighting the adverse impact on Nigerians.
An insider source revealed that SSS operatives visited Sheikh Shariff’s residence before and after Friday prayers in attempts to summon him. Upon his return from the mosque, the cleric promptly engaged with the security agents, opting to address their concerns and prove his innocence.
“From what we gathered, the order to arrest Malam was from Abuja, but somehow the matter was handled by the Kaduna State Command,” the source disclosed.
Although Sheikh Shariff was released after hours of interrogation, the SSS expressed security apprehensions regarding his sermons and public engagement, urging him to exercise caution due to the sensitive political climate. However, his associates believe his recent criticisms of economic hardships and political figures may have prompted the SSS’s scrutiny.
Efforts to obtain official statements from the SSS spokesperson, Peter Afunanya, were unsuccessful at the time of reporting. The incident underscores the delicate balance between freedom of speech and national security concerns in Nigeria’s political discourse.
