The Bauchi State chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has rejected allegations of terrorism financing levelled against the state governor, Bala Mohammed, describing them as baseless, malicious and politically motivated.
In a statement jointly signed by its chairman, Rev Abraham Dimeus, and secretary, Rev Matthew Laslimbo, and made public on Friday, the association said the claims were part of a deliberate attempt to tarnish the image of the governor and destabilise the state for political gain.
“These claims are false and amount to a political vendetta championed by individuals outside the state, in collaboration with fraudulent elements within, bent on tarnishing the image of Bauchi State and its governor,” the statement said.
CAN said the allegations were an affront to the truth and to Bauchi’s reputation, describing the state as one of the most peaceful in northern Nigeria.
While urging caution in the ongoing prosecution of some Bauchi State government officials by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the association stressed that it was not challenging the authority of any institution.
Rather, it said it was speaking out as citizens and residents who felt compelled to respond to claims they believed could inflame tensions.
“We have keenly and diligently followed recent events as they unfold regarding the allegations of financing terrorism levelled against Governor Mohammed by the EFCC,” the statement said. “Ordinarily, we would have kept quiet, but as citizens of Nigeria and residents of Bauchi State, it is our responsibility to state what we know and are sure of.”
The group called for restraint in the handling of the matter, warning that a lack of caution could escalate political and social tensions.
CAN credited Mohammed’s administration with taking “pragmatic steps” to improve security and foster peaceful coexistence among people of different ethnic and religious backgrounds.
“As residents of Bauchi State, we are witnesses to the pragmatic steps and relentless commitment of our amiable governor on issues relating to security,” it said, adding that the state had not experienced any religious crisis since 2019.
The association also pointed to what it described as the governor’s consistent commitment to interfaith harmony, support for Christian institutions and events, respect for human rights and dedication to peace and security.
CAN condemned any attempt it said could disrupt the state’s relative calm and urged the public to disregard what it described as false and inflammatory claims.
