The Bauchi State Police Command has issued a declaration for the arrest of renowned Bauchi-based Islamic cleric, Dr Idris Abdulaziz, over alleged contempt of court.
Abdulaziz, who serves as the Chief Imam of Dutsen Tanshi Jumaat mosque in Bauchi, has found himself in legal trouble following accusations of inciting his followers.
He is currently facing trial for alleged blasphemy in his sermons since 2022, and now faces additional charges filed by the State Attorney General and Commissioner of Justice, as well as the Police, for “inciting disturbances, insulting, or inciting contempt of religious creed,” at the Chief Magistrate Court.
The Inspector General of Police issued a public notice for Abdulaziz’s arrest in a Special Police Gazette Bulletin released on Thursday.
The bulletin urges security agencies and the general public to provide information on the whereabouts of the cleric to the Police.
The notice reads: “If seen, arrest and hand over to the nearest Police Station or to the office of the Deputy Commissioner of Police, Criminal Investigation Department Bauchi State Command, or call, 08151849417, 09048226246. A handsome reward awaits any person(s) with information.”