The Digest:
Prominent Zaria-based Islamic scholar Sani Khalifa has been detained for 23 days over an alleged connection to a previously reported coup plot against President Bola Tinubu, a case shrouded in contradiction as the government officially denies any such plot exists.
Key Points:
- Sheikh Sani Khalifa was detained by security agents in Abuja after traveling to resolve an unexplained freeze on his bank account.
- His arrest is reportedly linked to a N2 million transfer from one of the alleged coup plotters, a soldier, sent as a gift for "prayers and blessings."
- Family sources insist the cleric had no political relationship with the soldier; the transfer was facilitated indirectly through a disciple.
- This detention occurs despite previous Premium Times reports exposing the arrest of over 16 military officers, led by Brigadier-General Musa Sadiq, for an alleged October coup plot.
- Intriguingly, sources claim authorities have internally admitted Khalifa's name does not appear on any suspect list, and he has been "cleared," yet he remains in custody.
- The arrest contradicts the Nigerian government's public denials of any coup plot, raising questions about the legal basis for the detention.
- Defence Headquarters spokesperson did not respond to requests for comment, and the government has not officially acknowledged the arrest.
Sources: Premium Times, Daily Trust
