Cleric Challenges Police: Why Are Heavy-Armed Men in Katsina Labeled Vigilantes?

A prominent northern cleric has accused the Nigeria Police Force of misleading the public by describing a viral video of armed men in Katsina State as local vigilantes rather than terrorists. Sheikh Murtala Bello Asada Sokoto rejected the police statement that uniformed officers were seen saluting community guards. He shared another video in response and argued the footage clearly shows heavily armed bandits returning from a peace meeting. Speaking in Hausa, the cleric warned that downplaying these armed groups undermines trust in security agencies at a time when banditry remains rampant in North-West Nigeria. The controversy erupted after a viral clip showed dozens of men on motorcycles carrying assault rifles. Many Nigerians reacted with outrage, recalling years of attacks, kidnappings and killings by bandits across Katsina and neighbouring states.

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