Zamfara police detain man for inciting violence against Christians in viral video
Umar Ibrahim Gandi Maradun was arrested after a video surfaced showing him threatening Christians.

The Zamfara State Police Command has taken significant action by arresting a young man linked to a viral video that allegedly incited violence against Christians in Enugu and Jos. The suspect, identified as Umar Ibrahim Gandi Maradun, was apprehended after being filmed chanting a song that called for the killing of Christians.
The video, which sparked widespread outrage on social media, depicted Maradun in the uniform of Jama'atu Izalatil Bidi'a Wa'ikamatus Sunnah (JIBWIS), accompanied by pupils from two Islamic schools in the Maradun Local Government Area. Following the video's circulation, JIBWIS officials intervened and handed Maradun over to the police for further investigation.
Zamfara State Commissioner of Police, Muhammad Bello, confirmed the arrest and emphasized the police's commitment to ensuring the safety of all residents, irrespective of their religious beliefs. The police revealed that the video included alarming phrases such as, "give us rifles to go and kill Christians," which raised serious concerns about public safety and religious tolerance.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the video was recorded on October 23, 2026, while Maradun was reportedly en route to the Aliyu Ibn Abi Thalib Mosque. During this time, he and other individuals were providing security for Friday prayers and preaching sessions. The two Islamic schools associated with the video, Nurul Islam Islamiya and Akidatul Sahiha Islamiya, are located approximately 120 kilometers from Gusau, the state capital.
In response to the incident, the police have engaged with JIBWIS leaders at both the national and state levels. The organization has publicly distanced itself from Maradun's actions and the content of the video, indicating that such behavior does not reflect their values.
Further details about the suspect reveal that he was born on September 15, 2004, and has attended both Mualledi Model Primary School and Government Day Secondary School in Maradun. Maradun joined JIBWIS in 2025 and has recently gained admission to Zamfara State University to pursue a degree in Mass Communication.
Commissioner Bello stated that investigations are ongoing, and Maradun will face charges related to incitement to violence, public disturbance, and criminal intimidation under relevant sections of the Penal Code Law applicable in Zamfara State. The police are committed to gathering comprehensive evidence before proceeding with the case in court.
Sources
- Linda Ikeji's Blog Original article