Governor Bago Dismisses Claims Of Instructing Security Officers To Attack Cleric At Fidua Observance

Governor Bago Dismisses Claims Of Instructing Security Officers To Attack Cleric At Fidua Observance

The Niger State Government has responded to a viral video allegedly showing Governor Mohammed Bago giving orders for security personnel to slap a man during the Fidua prayer for the late wife of Deputy Governor Zainab Yakubu…….. CONTINUE READING

In a statement released on Tuesday by the governor’s Special Adviser on Print Media, Aisha Wakaso, it was clarified that the individual in question was an impostor attempting to impersonate an Imam. Contrary to initial reports, Wakaso confirmed that the man neither faced physical assault nor was he arrested.

“The incident occurred during the three-day Fidua Prayers for the late wife of Deputy Governor Hajiya Zainab Garba,” Wakaso stated, addressing misrepresentations in media reports including an editorial in the Daily Trust Newspaper titled ‘Bago: Let Temperance Reign.’

Wakaso explained that Governor Bago intervened when an unauthorized individual attempted to assume spiritual responsibilities reserved for Imams gathered at the Deputy Governor’s residence. This decision, she emphasized, aimed to uphold the sanctity and solemnity of the occasion, respecting the deceased and the purpose of the gathering.

The statement further noted criticisms levied against Governor Bago’s actions as unfair, defending them as necessary to prevent disruption of the Fidua prayer. Wakaso also disclosed that the individual involved, a supporter of the governor, had sought attention through overzealous behavior.

“He has since expressed remorse and sought forgiveness from both the governor and the forum of Imams,” Wakaso added, underscoring that Governor Bago’s actions were guided by a commitment to honoring the deceased and maintaining the reverence of the Fidua ceremony.