Tijjaniyya Order Voices Concern Over Cleric's Detention

The Tijjaniyya Sufi Order has raised alarms regarding the prolonged detention of its prominent leader, Sheikh Abdulkadir Sani Khalifa Zaria, and has expressed confidence in the judiciary to ensure justice in this matter. A statement was issued by the national vice chairman of the group, Sheikh Ibrahim Shehu Maihula, who described Sheikh Khalifa Zaria as a respected Islamic scholar known for his peaceful teachings and advocacy for law and discipline.

The situation began on November 30, 2025, when Sheikh Khalifa Zaria visited Jaiz Bank in Zaria, Kaduna State, to conduct a transaction. Following this, he was advised to visit the bank's headquarters in Abuja to resolve an issue related to his account.

Upon arriving at the bank's headquarters on December 11, 2025, he was arrested by personnel identified as members of the Defence Intelligence Agency.