The State Security Service (SSS) questioned Sheikh Auwal Shariff, a well-known Islamic cleric from Zaria, for speaking out against President Bola Tinubu’s government regarding economic difficulties in Nigeria.
According to reports, the cleric, known for his outspoken views on Tinubu’s administration, was interrogated on Friday and later released.
In one of his recorded sermons, Sheikh Shariff compared the leadership change from former President Muhammadu Buhari to Tinubu to historical figures Pharaoh and Haman. He criticized Tinubu’s decision to swiftly remove fuel subsidies, leading to a drastic increase in petrol prices.
“Tinubu and Buhari are like Pharaoh and Haman; there is no difference between them. If not for Tinubu’s lack of respect and dignity for Nigerians, how can you announce the removal of subsidy in your inaugural speech?
“After announcing the removal on the inauguration stage, the petrol price jumped from around N200 to over N600 before the president left the venue.
“And people just laughed it off, as though nothing happened. What kind of people are we?
“Ideally, he should have consulted his economic team before making such a hasty decision; even the military, which rules by decree, don’t make that kind of pronouncement,” Mr Sharif said.
Security officials visited Sheikh Shariff’s home twice on Friday, leaving behind a letter and contact information. Upon returning from mosque, he contacted them and agreed to discuss the matter.
After a lengthy interrogation, he was allowed to return home. The SSS expressed concerns about his speeches and advised him to be more cautious due to the sensitive political climate.
The cleric’s questioning is believed to be linked to his recent criticisms of the government’s handling of economic issues and certain political figures.
Efforts to reach the SSS spokesperson, Peter Afunanya, for comment were unsuccessful at the time of reporting.
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