The Jama’atu Izalatil Bid’a Wa’ikamatis Sunnah, JIBWIS, has condemned calls for violence against non-Muslims in Plateau and Enugu States.
The group distanced itself from a viral video in which some persons allegedly urged attacks using AK-47 rifles.
The organisation said it would not support any call to attack or kill anyone, regardless of their religion.
The National Publicity Secretary of JIBWIS, Sheikh Ahmad Muhammad Ashiru, said this in a statement issued at the group’s headquarters in Jos on Tuesday.
“We are yet to confirm whether the video is authentic, but our position against violence remains clear,” Ashiru said.
Ashiru said JIBWIS had yet to verify the video’s authenticity but stressed that the organisation would not condone any call to attack or kill anyone.
He said the group, under the leadership of Ash-Sheikh Muhammad Sani Yahaya Jingir, rejected violence, especially at a time when many Nigerians were struggling with insecurity.
“Banditry, kidnapping, armed robbery and Boko Haram attacks continue to affect communities across the country, while comments that promote violence can threaten peaceful coexistence and create unnecessary tension among Nigerians,” Ashiru said.
“We would not support any call capable of disturbing the peace of Nigeria, as such comments are capable of inciting violence and creating unnecessary tension among Nigerians,” he said.
He stressed that anyone making such statements in the name of JIBWIS did not represent the organisation’s position.
He urged security agencies to investigate the video, establish its authenticity and identify those involved.
He added that anyone found responsible should face the law after a proper investigation by the relevant authorities.
