The Dutsen Tanshi Majlis Foundation Bauchi, a collective of devoted followers of the renowned Islamic Cleric, Dr. Idris Abdul’aziz, have refuted allegations of issuing a notice to the state government, warning that they would take matters into their own hands if their leader is not immediately released.

According to Vistanaij Media, the embattled cleric was sent to a correctional facility by the High Court of Islamic Law No. 1 in Bauchi for being in contempt of court.

Abdul’aziz is currently undergoing trial on charges of inciting public disturbance and blasphemy. Previously, a bench warrant was issued against him when he failed to appear in court.

However, in a statement released by their leader, Malam Yau, and provided to journalists on Tuesday, his followers clarified that the posters demanding his release did not originate from their group.

“This is an emergency message to berate the students of Malam for some messages perpetrated by some unknown persons threatening that if Dr. Imam Idris is not released immediately, they will take laws into their hands.” So, we reiterate that this is not from us and we have no knowledge of it, the statement reads

It added that “We are calling on all Muslims that follow the teachings of Qur’an and Hadith and the righteous path to continue to be law-abiding, as efforts are ongoing to ensure the matter is settled legally.” 

According to Malam Yau, only the committee members of the group have the authority to issue official statements or take a position regarding the ongoing legal case involving their leader.