Nigerian social media skit maker Bello Habib Galadanci, popularly known as Dan Bello, has leveled explosive allegations against Sheikh Abdullahi Bala Lau, the leader of Jama’atu Izalatil Bid’ah Wa Iqamatus Sunnah (JIBWIS), accusing him of orchestrating a multi-million-naira contract fraud.
In a viral video obtained by SaharaReporters, Dan Bello claimed that, in collaboration with Bauchi-based investigative news platform Wikkitimes, he uncovered a web of financial irregularities allegedly linked to Sheikh Lau and companies associated with JIBWIS.
According to Dan Bello, Sheikh Lau is connected to over 30 bank accounts and has been involved in suspicious financial transactions spanning from 2021 to 2023. He pointed to a particular case involving a company named M & A Integrated Services, which, on December 19, 2022, reportedly received over N130 million for the construction of five classrooms in Borno, Kaduna, and Plateau states. Despite the hefty payment, Bello alleged that no construction took place, presenting images of old, dilapidated structures as evidence of unfulfilled contracts.
JIBWIS, in a swift response via a statement in Hausa on its official Facebook page, dismissed the allegations as baseless and misleading. The group accused Dan Bello of attempting to tarnish the reputation of its revered leader through unfounded claims and misinformation.
The Islamic organization, known for its advocacy of Sunni teachings and opposition to religious innovations (bid’ah), clarified that the classroom project in question was a constituency initiative of Rep. Mukhtar Aliyu Betara. The lawmaker allegedly assigned Sheikh Lau to oversee the project’s execution, as the schools were designated for JIBWIS beneficiaries.
Dan Bello further alleged financial mismanagement concerning the JIBWIS College of Education in Jega. However, JIBWIS refuted the claims, stating that the project was initiated, executed, and inaugurated under the oversight of Senator Adamu Aliero.
The group also announced plans to take legal action against Dan Bello, challenging him to present his evidence in court. As the controversy intensifies, Nigerians are keenly watching to see whether these allegations will lead to legal consequences or fade into another unproven scandal.
With accusations and counterclaims flying, the case has sparked heated debates, with some calling for an independent investigation into the alleged financial misconduct, while others stand firmly in defense of JIBWIS and its leader.
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