CAN Expresses Surprise Over Terrorism Financing Allegation Against Gov. Bala Mohammed

The Bauchi State chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has expressed surprise over allegations of terrorism financing leveled against the state governor, Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

CAN called for caution in the ongoing prosecution of some Bauchi State Government officials by the EFCC, warning that the allegations, if not properly handled, could worsen tensions in the state.

The position was contained in a statement jointly signed by the CAN Chairman, Rev. Dr. Abraham Damina Dimeus, and the Secretary, Rev. Matthew Wakili Laslimbo, and made available to journalists in Bauchi on Thursday.

“We have keenly and diligently followed recent events as they unfold regarding the allegations of financing terrorism leveled against Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, CON (Kauran Daular Usmaniyya), by the EFCC,” the statement read.

CAN noted that although it is a religious body with no political affiliation, it was compelled to speak out as citizens and residents of Bauchi State.

“Ordinarily, as a religious body with no involvement in politics or political activities, we would have kept quiet. However, as citizens of Nigeria and residents of Bauchi State, it is our responsibility to state what we know and are sure of,” the association said.

While stressing that it was not challenging the authority or constitutional responsibilities of any agency, CAN urged restraint, warning that mishandling the matter could have adverse consequences.

“As residents of Bauchi State, we are witnesses to the pragmatic steps and relentless commitment of our amiable governor to security issues. People have been peacefully coexisting irrespective of ethno-religious differences, and there has been no religious crisis since 2019 when he assumed office,” CAN stated.

The association said it was therefore “surprised” by claims that Governor Mohammed was involved in financing terrorism, describing the allegations as “baseless, malicious, and an affront to the truth and image of Bauchi State,” which it noted is regarded as one of the most peaceful states in northern Nigeria despite widespread insecurity in other parts of the country.

CAN further commended the governor’s commitment to interfaith harmony, support for Christian institutions and events, fairness in human rights matters, and dedication to peace and security in the state.

“To us as a group, these claims appear politically motivated and amount to political persecution, as well as an orchestrated attempt by enemies of Bauchi State to plunge the state into chaos for political gain,” the statement said.

The association also alleged that the accusations were being championed by individuals outside the state, working with “fraudulent elements within,” to tarnish the image of both the state and the governor.

“As Christians committed to unity and peaceful coexistence, we condemn these claims in strong terms and resist any attempt capable of disrupting the relative peace we are enjoying in Bauchi State,” CAN added.

It debunked what it described as attempts to smear the governor’s reputation, portraying him as a detribalized and religiously tolerant leader with high integrity.

CAN urged the public to disregard what it termed false allegations and to continue supporting Governor Mohammed in his leadership of the state.

The association declared that Christians in Bauchi State feel more protected under the current administration than at any other time in the state’s history, describing Governor Mohammed as “the most Christian-friendly governor” since his emergence in 2019.

CAN concluded by reaffirming its confidence in the governor, stating that “His Excellency, Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed is not in any way aligned with terrorists, nor is he a financier of terrorism.”