Politician Calls for Religious Tolerance Amidst Allegations of Political Persecution in Gombe
Politician Calls for Religious Tolerance Amidst Allegations of Political Persecution in Gombe
By Matthew Eloyi
The Labour Party’s candidate for the 2023 gubernatorial elections in Gombe State, Keftin Amuga, has made a heartfelt plea to Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya to release citizens detained since 2021, to foster a spirit of religious tolerance during the festive season.
The detainees, reportedly apprehended by security forces during the Mai Tangle conflict, a dispute between Dr Musa Idris Maiyamba and the current seat occupier, Sanusi Maishanu, have been held since 2021. The conflict escalated after a protest in Billiri Local Government Area, resulting in the destruction of lives and property.
In a press statement extending greetings for the yuletide season, Amuga urged Governor Yahaya to release what he referred to as ‘political prisoners of conscience’ linked to the Mai Tangle debacle. Amuga’s statement conveyed concerns about the perceived religious undertones in the continued detention, asserting that it could be seen as evidence of the All Progressives Congress (APC) being anti-Christian.
Amuga emphasized, “I wish to appeal to Gombe State Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya to kindly consider and release the political prisoners of conscience associated with the crisis over the appointment of the Mai Tangle, who have been incarcerated since 2021.”
The former gubernatorial candidate also quoted former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir David Lawal, who labelled the APC as a “Muslim party with an Islamic agenda,” adding weight to the argument of religious bias.
In urging the governor to act, Amuga called for unity among politicians, transcending religious and partisan divides. He implored, “to release these prisoners of conscience as a mark of respect and tolerance towards Christians during this significant Christmas season.”
Highlighting the need for religious leaders to play a constructive role, Amuga stated, “I implore all religious leaders, particularly Christian leaders, to speak out against what is wrong, particularly the continuous incarceration of these detainees. Their influential voices can play a pivotal role in advancing the cause of righteousness and thereby advocating and establishing justice for all.”
Amuga concluded by encouraging Christians to support their prayers with fasting, fostering an atmosphere of religious tolerance during the festive season. As the call for release resonates, Gombe State awaits Governor Yahaya’s response to address these concerns and foster harmony among its diverse populace.
