The Nigeria Police Force has arrested a 22-year-old man over a viral video allegedly containing statements capable of inciting religious violence.
The suspect, identified as Umar Ibrahim Gandi Maradun, is from Maradun Local Government Area of Zamfara State.
Police said investigations are underway to determine the circumstances surrounding the video and its potential threat to public peace.
The police arrest over the viral religious violence video followed intelligence efforts by the Zamfara State Police Command and engagement with the leadership of a religious organisation linked to the incident.
According to the police, the video allegedly shows a young man wearing the uniform of Jama’atu Izalatil Bidi’a Wa’ikamatus Sunnah (JIBWIS).
The individual is alleged to have made statements capable of threatening peaceful coexistence and public order.
Following the video’s circulation, the Zamfara State Police Command activated its intelligence resources to identify those involved.
The command also contacted JIBWIS leaders at the national and state levels concerning the incident.
The organisation’s leadership reportedly distanced itself from the alleged conduct and handed the suspect over to the police.
The police subsequently arrested Maradun and began a detailed investigation into the matter.
The Nigeria Police Force said the investigation remains ongoing. It added that the suspect would be charged before a competent court if sufficient evidence establishes an offence under applicable law.
The Force also reaffirmed its commitment to protecting Nigerians regardless of their religious beliefs.
It warned against actions capable of promoting religious hatred, triggering violence or disturbing public peace.
Meanwhile, the police urged Nigerians to avoid sharing the video further or circulating unverified claims that could increase religious tensions.
Members of the public were also advised to remain calm while investigators establish the facts surrounding the incident.
The police stressed the importance of protecting lives and property while promoting peaceful coexistence across the country.
The statement was signed by CSP Ani Iniedu, Force Public Relations Officer, at the Force Headquarters in Abuja on October 27, 2026.
However, the allegations remain under investigation, and any criminal responsibility must be determined through the legal process.
