Bauchi CAN exonerates Gov Bala from terrorism financing

The Bauchi State chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has declared that, considering the relative peace enjoyed in the state, there is nothing linking Governor Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed to terrorism financing or any act related to it.

This position was contained in a statement jointly signed by the CAN Chairman, Rev. Dr. Abraham Damina Dimeus, and the Secretary, Rev. Matthew Wakili Laslimbo, and made available to journalists in Bauchi in reaction to the ongoing prosecution of some state government officials for alleged terrorism financing.

The association, therefore, called for caution in the ongoing prosecution of some officials of the Bauchi State Government by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), especially as it relates to allegations of terrorism financing leveled against the Governor.

CAN stated, “We have keenly and diligently followed recent developments regarding the allegations of terrorism financing leveled against the Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, CON (Kauran Daular Usmaniyya), by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).”

It added, “Ordinarily, as a religious body with no political affiliation, we would have remained silent and watched events unfold. However, as citizens of Nigeria and residents of Bauchi State, it is our responsibility to state what we know and are certain of.”

ALSO READ: Kwara APC group canvasses unity ahead of 2027

According to CAN, “While we are not challenging the authority of any institution in carrying out its duties, we believe that caution must be applied to avoid worsening the situation.”

“As residents of Bauchi State, we have witnessed the pragmatic steps and relentless commitment of our amiable Governor to security issues. People coexist peacefully irrespective of ethnic or religious differences. There has been no religious crisis since 2019 when he became Governor,” it stressed.

CAN said it was therefore surprised by the claims, describing them as baseless, malicious, and an affront to truth and the image of Bauchi State, which remains one of the most peaceful states in Northern Nigeria despite widespread bandit and terrorist attacks in the country.

“His Excellency, Governor Bala Mohammed, has consistently demonstrated commitment to interfaith harmony, support for Christian institutions and events, fairness, justice, human rights, and dedication to peace and security in Bauchi State,” the statement added.

It maintained that, to the Christian community, the allegations appear politically motivated, amounting to persecution and an orchestrated attempt by enemies of Bauchi State to cause chaos for selfish political gains.

CAN further stated that the claims were false and politically driven, championed by individuals outside the state in collaboration with dishonest elements within, who are bent on tarnishing the image of Bauchi State and its Governor to divert attention from their own wrongdoings.

“As Christians committed to promoting unity and peaceful coexistence among diverse religions, we strongly condemn these allegations and will resist any attempt capable of disrupting the relative peace we are enjoying in Bauchi State,” it said.

The association also debunked what it described as rhetoric aimed at dragging the Governor’s hard-earned reputation in the mud, noting that he is known as a detribalised and religiously tolerant leader with integrity.

“We acknowledge Governor Bala Mohammed’s efforts in promoting unity and development in Bauchi State. We stand with him against these unfounded allegations and reaffirm our trust in his leadership,” CAN stated.

It urged the public to disregard the claims and support the Governor as he continues to serve the state with dedication.

CAN further declared that Christians in Bauchi State feel more protected under Governor Bala Mohammed’s administration than at any other time in the state’s history, describing him as the most Christian-friendly Governor since 2019.

It urged individuals engaging in what it described as “heinous and dirty politics” to desist and prioritise the unity and progress of Bauchi State, while embracing peace rather than creating false narratives.

CAN reaffirmed its support and unwavering loyalty to the Governor and expressed confidence in his administration because of his contributions to the Christian community in the state.

It concluded, “In our conviction, His Excellency, Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, is in no way aligning with terrorists, nor is he financing terrorism.”