Yobe Govt debunks allegation of abducting Christian girls

Yobe Government has denied an online publication alleging the abduction of 30 Christian girls by the Islamic Religious Affairs Ministry.

Alhaji Yusuf Umar, Commissioner for Religious Affairs and Ethical Reorientation, described the report as “ugly, malicious, baseless, and false.”

Umar said the ministry held a meeting with CAN executives, security agencies, and other stakeholders to verify the allegation, but found no evidence.

“Our primary responsibility is to regulate and monitor religious activities in the state, ensuring peaceful coexistence among all faiths.

“The report aims to tarnish the state’s image and disrupt the harmonious relationship between Muslims and Christians,” Umar stated.

He challenged the publisher to provide details of the alleged abduction, emphasizing the ministry’s role in regulating and monitoring religious activities in the state.

Rev. Ibrahim Abako, CAN Secretary in Yobe, also denied knowledge of the report, stating that they had no official record of such incidents.

He added that the association was unaware of any such incident.

Abako however acknowledged some cases of religious conversion in the past, clarifying that those were handled through proper channels and did not involve abduction.

The CAN representative reaffirmed the association’s commitment to maintaining peace and harmony in the state.

He also denied any reports of threats or molestation against Christian members.

NUJ Chairman, Mr. Rajab Muhammed, cautioned journalists to exhibit professionalism and adhere to ethical standards to avoid misleading the public.