Police officers in Gombe State have rescued a religious leader who was allegedly detained by a group of youths in Birin Fulani, located in Nafada Local Government Area.
The Nigeria Police Force confirmed that the cleric, identified as Abubakar Puma, 58, from Akko Local Government Area, was freed without injury after being confined inside a building by youths suspected to belong to the Darika sect.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Buhari Abdullahi, the incident happened in the early hours of March 15, 2026, following a report of unrest in the community.
He stated that officers were immediately deployed after receiving information about a breach of public peace around 3:00 a.m. The Divisional Police Officer responded swiftly and led a team to the scene to restore order.
Upon arrival, it was discovered that the cleric had been locked up by a group of aggrieved youths who accused him of making insulting remarks against their leaders. The police noted that he had been assigned to the area to lead the 2026 Ramadan Tafsir under the Jama’atu Izalatil Bid’a Wa Iqamatus Sunnah, based in Jos.
The DPO reportedly engaged the youths in discussions, which helped calm tensions and led to the cleric’s peaceful release. Authorities confirmed that no injuries or fatalities occurred and that normal activities have resumed in the area.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police in Gombe State, Umar Chuso, has ordered a thorough but discreet investigation to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident and to hold any responsible individuals accountable.
The police also advised residents to avoid sharing unverified information online, warning that false reports could create unnecessary tension. They reassured the public that security has been restored and encouraged the use of lawful channels to resolve disputes.