ABUJA — Police operatives in Zamfara State have arrested 22-year-old Umar Ibrahim Gandi Maradun after a viral video surfaced showing youths making incendiary statements and inciting religious violence.
Force Public Relations Officer, Ani Iniedu, confirmed the arrest in an official statement issued Tuesday at the Force Headquarters in Abuja.
The arrest follows intense public outcry sparked by a video circulated on social media showing uniformed youths chanting violent threats against non-Muslims, calling for AK-47 rifles, and threatening attacks in Jos and Enugu. The chants prompted immediate calls from human rights group Amnesty International and Islamic organization Jama’atu Izalatil Bidi’a Wa’ikamatus Sunnah (JIBWIS) for swift law enforcement action.
JIBWIS Denounces Chants, Surrenders Suspect
According to Zamfara State Commissioner of Police A.M. Bello, the incident occurred on Friday, October 23, 2026, while Maradun and other youths were marching to provide security for Friday congregational prayers at a mosque.
Following police engagement with JIBWIS leadership at both national and state levels, the religious organization formally disassociated itself from the violent conduct and handed Maradun over to law enforcement.
Key facts regarding the suspect:
Identity: Umar Ibrahim Gandi Maradun, 22, native of Maradun Local Government Area, Zamfara State.
Background: Joined the JIBWIS First Aid Group in 2025 and is an incoming Mass Communication student at Zamfara State University, Talata Mafara.
Police Warn Against Sharing Viral Video
The Nigeria Police Force reiterated its commitment to upholding the constitutional rights of all citizens and protecting public peace against conduct capable of provoking sectarian violence.
FPRO Iniedu confirmed that investigation into the incident is ongoing and that Maradun will be charged in court upon its conclusion. Police authorities urged the public to remain calm and refrain from re-sharing the video or spreading unverified information that could heighten religious tensions.