Authorities in Bauchi State have shut down Ibadurrahman Mosque in Shingen Abba, citing security concerns arising from a long-running conflict involving the mosque’s leadership.
Commissioner of Hisbah, Barrister Aminu Balarabe Isa, said the closure became necessary after intelligence and previous incidents indicated a growing risk of confrontation between supporters of the mosque’s management committee and its imam.
He said the state government acted to avert a breakdown of law and order, recalling past instances where mosque-related disputes in Bauchi reportedly resulted in fatalities.
“The situation had reached a stage where physical confrontations were being contemplated. We cannot allow a crisis that could lead to injury or loss of life,” he stated.
Isa explained that various intervention efforts, including mediation by the Sharia Commission and court-directed reconciliation processes, failed to produce a lasting solution.
According to him, the dispute has persisted for nearly three years despite repeated engagements with both parties.
The commissioner said the closure was backed by legal provisions that empower authorities to take preventive measures whenever public peace is threatened.
He emphasized that while citizens have constitutional rights to practise their religion, such rights must be exercised in a manner that does not endanger public safety.
Residents were urged to comply with the government’s directive pending the resolution of the dispute, while security agencies were instructed to enforce the closure order.
