Following the demise of Malam Lawal Abubakar who succeeded, Sheikh Abubakar Gumi in 2004, Dr. Gumi took over the annual Ramadan tafsir. He was arrested on February 24, this year by the Saudi Arabia security over an alleged link with Farouk Abdulmutallab, suspected attempted bomber of an American aircraft.
Making the announcement during yesterday’s juma’at prayer, the Chief Imam of the Mosque, Sheikh Abdulhamid Balale Wali said “Malam Saidu is the Assistant of Dr. Gumi. They were both appointed by the late Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammadu Maccido and the Emir of Zazzau, Dr. Shehu Idris. The letters for their appointment were conveyed by the former Secretary-General of the Jamatul Nasrul Islam (JNI) Justice Abdulkadir Orire. This is not the first time; Malam Saidu would conduct the Tafsir. Whenever Dr. Gumi is not around, he delivers it,’’ he said.
He urged Muslims in the country to continue to pray for the quick release of Dr. Gumi. “He is no longer in detention, he is now under house arrest. And we have gathered that he is in very sound health. His family members do see him,’’ he added.
He said efforts are in top gear to secure his release by the Nigerian government. “ The Kaduna state governor, Mr. Patrick Yakowa and the Emir of Zazzau, Dr. Shehu Idris few days ago traveled to Abuja and discussed the issue with Mr. President. The case is now between the Nigerian and Saudi Arabia governments but we are hoping that he will soon be released,’’ he said.
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