Former Vice-President and African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar has accused some politicians, including governors, of targeting people who associate with him.
Atiku alleged that an imam was suspended after leading a congregational prayer he attended.
He made the allegation on Saturday during a courtesy visit to the Emir of Bauchi, Alhaji Rilwanu Suleiman Adamu, as part of his visit to the state.
Atiku said he visited the palace to show respect for traditional institutions.
“Your Royal Highness, for me, this is my home. I came to the palace to pay my respect and honour to our royal father,” he said.
He questioned why politicians often return to traditional institutions to receive titles after leaving public office, saying this reflected their importance to the people.
“Whether you are a president, governor, senator or minister, once you finish your tenure, you return to the palace to receive a traditional title because this is our root and our future,” Atiku said.
He thanked Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed for allowing him to meet the state’s traditional rulers, claiming that political leaders had been prevented from visiting emirs in some other places.
“I want to specially thank the Governor of Bauchi State for his hospitality to us because, in many places we visit, they do not allow us to see the traditional rulers. They do not allow us to pay our respects to them; instead, they block us,” he said.
Atiku alleged that an imam at a mosque where he had prayed was suspended by a governor. He questioned the governor’s authority over the imam, arguing that religious and traditional matters should fall under the authority of the emir.
“The ugly trend has reached a point where an imam at a mosque where I prayed was suspended by the governor,” he said.
Atiku added that traditional rulers had historically played a central role in the leadership of communities and said politicians should respect their authority.
“I swear to God this will not happen under my watch,” he said, adding that he hoped to preserve the history and traditions of the people.
Atiku also prayed for the opportunity and resolve to do what he described as the right thing.
