Chairman of Northern Christian Association, Rev. Joseph John Hayab
Northern Christian Association (NCA) has called on security agencies to immediately arrest and prosecute an Islamic cleric allegedly captured in a viral video placing a N2 million bounty on a pastor accused of blasphemy against Prophet Muhammad.
The association warned that failure to act decisively could heighten religious tension and threaten public peace across northern Nigeria.
Chairman of the NCA, Rev. Joseph John Hayab, made the demand in a statement issued on Sunday in Kaduna, describing the alleged action as dangerous incitement capable of triggering violence.
Hayab expressed concern that a religious leader, who is expected to promote tolerance and peaceful coexistence, could be linked to an act that undermines social stability.
He said the association had consistently preached peace, stressing that its commitment to harmony should not be mistaken for weakness.
The NCA chairman urged the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Police Force and other relevant agencies to investigate the incident and bring those responsible to justice.
He cautioned that any harm to the pastor could provoke reactions, further escalating tensions.
Hayab also called on Islamic leaders across the country to openly condemn the alleged act and distance themselves from any form of violence carried out in the name of religion.
According to him, silence from moderate voices could embolden extremists and deepen divisions within society.
He maintained that placing a bounty on an individual’s life is a direct violation of the rule of law and the sanctity of human life.
Citing Section 33(1) of the 1999 Constitution, Hayab emphasised that every citizen has a right to life and can only be deprived of it through due legal process.
“There is no monopoly of violence. The fact that we choose peace should not be taken for granted,” he said.
He, however, urged restraint among all parties, advising aggrieved individuals to seek redress through lawful channels rather than resorting to self-help.
The association reaffirmed its commitment to peaceful coexistence and respect for fundamental human rights, insisting that justice must be pursued within the confines of the law.
