The Guardian (Lagos)
Isa Abdulsalami
14 August 2001
Jos — The implementation of Sharia legal code in Bauchi State, especially in Tafawa Balewa and Bogoro councils, which are predominantly Christians, has become a source of worry to the Church of Christ in Nigeria.
Calling on President Olusegun Obasanjo to call Governor Adamu Mu'azu to order, and to exercise restraint in his drive to implement the Islamic law in the state, the church pointed out that there was neither sense nor justification, in the mass destruction of lives and property in the name of religion as was being witnessed in the state.
COCIN in a communique by its President, Rev. Alexander Lar, General Secretary Rev. John Audu and his deputy Rev. Felix Lar at the end of their executive council meeting, wondered why Sharia should be forced down the throats of unwilling people and those who are completely Christians.
The church pointed out that the two councils had "overwhelmingly rejected the implementaiton of Sharia in their areas since they are Christians".
According to the communique, the resolution of the communities to reject the Islamic legal code was formally conveyed in writing to the state government, adding that even the presidency was aware of the situation.
The communique added that the committee set up by the government to enlighten the people on Sharia, did not go to Tafawa Balewa and Bogoro, adding that despite the rejection by the two communities, a Sharia court judge reported for work in Tafawa Balewa unexpectedly on June 18.
"That Monday, June 18, the two councils were attacked by warriors chanting Sharia Dole (Sharia is a must). There were many deaths and wide-spread destruction of property."
According to the communique, another attack was launched on Tafawa Balewa on August 5, which it claimed was still on as at the time of the communique.
"What has added a very disturbing dimension to the latest clash is the involvement of mercenaries believed to be from Wase, Yelwa, Shendam, Kurgwuni, Namu and Mangu in Plateau State.
It added that three vehicles loaded with warrior and weapons entering the conflict areas were intercepted by the police and were in police custody in Tafawa Balewa.
"The involvement of hired killers using the resources and the good name of Plateau State is most shocking," the communique stated, adding that Governor Joshua Dariye should investigate the matter to identify and punish the individuals behind the matter.
However, the state government has assured that it had directed the police to investigate the matter to establish its authenticity.
The Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Mr. Ezekiel Gomos, told The Guardian that government has asked the communities on both sides "to remain calm and vigilant."
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