KADUNA, NIGERIA – The Northern Christian Association (NCA) has called on security agencies to immediately arrest and prosecute an Islamic cleric allegedly captured in a viral video offering a ₦2 million bounty on a pastor accused of blasphemy against Prophet Muhammad.
The association warned that failure to act swiftly could heighten religious tensions and threaten public peace across northern Nigeria.
In a statement issued on Sunday in Kaduna, NCA Chairman, Rev. Joseph John Hayab described the alleged action as dangerous incitement capable of triggering violence.
Hayab expressed deep concern that a religious leader, who should promote tolerance and peaceful coexistence, could be involved in an act that undermines social stability.
He emphasised that the NCA has consistently preached peace and warned that its commitment to harmony should not be mistaken for weakness.
The NCA chairman urged the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Police Force, and other relevant security agencies to thoroughly investigate the incident and bring those responsible to justice.
He cautioned that any harm to the accused pastor could provoke reactions and further escalate tensions.
Hayab also called on Islamic leaders across the country to openly condemn the alleged act and clearly distance themselves from any form of violence perpetrated in the name of religion.
According to him, silence from moderate voices could embolden extremists and deepen societal divisions.
He maintained that placing a bounty on an individual’s life constitutes a direct violation of the rule of law and the sanctity of human life.
Citing Section 33(1) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Hayab stressed that every citizen has a right to life and can only be deprived of it through due process of law.
“There is no monopoly of violence. The fact that we choose peace should not be taken for granted,” he said.
Hayab urged restraint from all parties and advised aggrieved individuals to seek redress through lawful channels rather than resorting to self-help.
The NCA reaffirmed its commitment to peaceful coexistence and respect for fundamental human rights, insisting that justice must be pursued strictly within the confines of the law.
