Kaduna to crack down on ‘false’ blasphemy accusations

The Kaduna state security council has warned residents to refrain from acts that could threaten the peace following a recent incident over alleged blasphemy.

In a statement issued on Tuesday by Samuel Aruwan, spokesman of Nasir el-Rufai, governor of the state, the council said anyone found wanting would be prosecuted in accordance with the law.

Citing an instance where an argument between some persons almost went out of hand, the government warned the people against taking laws into their hands.

“The Kaduna state security council at its 21st meeting, held on the 3rd November, 2015, deliberated on the recent incidence at the Kawo General Hospital that threatened the peace of the state,” the statement read.

“The council was briefed that on the 25th October, 2015, an argument between two workers at the hospital who held opposing political opinions was suddenly twisted into an issue of blasphemy.

“The council was further briefed that the allegation of blasphemy was deliberately advanced by one of the persons involved in the argument to incite violence.

“The Kaduna state security council after careful deliberations resolves as follows:

“Anyone found fabricating allegations of religious blasphemy, whether as a basis for seeking sympathy or for any other reason,   will be treated as someone out to incite violence and the breakdown of law and order in the state.

“Such a person will be prosecuted as prescribed in the penal code and other existing laws.

“Where there is an allegation of religious blasphemy, citizens of the state are cautioned not to take the law into their hands. Rather they should report to security agencies who will promptly handle such matters, according to the provisions of the 1999 constitution, the penal code and other laws.

“Anyone that unilaterally takes the law into his or her own hand will be prosecuted accordingly.

“Kaduna state security council wishes to reiterate its commitment to the protection of lives and property in the state. Appropriate measures will be taken against any individual, no matter his or her standing, found inciting religious, ethnic and political violence or any form of civil disturbance in the state.

“The council also reiterates that the law banning commercial motorcycles in the State is still in force and the law enforcement agencies have been directed to ensure compliance and prosecution of any breach.

“The council note and appreciates the efforts of the citizens of the state in cooperating with the security agencies and the government. The council urges them to redouble their efforts in alerting security agencies, and traditional and religious leaders, about all suspicious movements and activities of individuals or groups that may pose threats to the peace and stability of the state.”