A prominent Islamic leader, Muhammad Gazail, has dismissed calls for the removal of Alhaji Hussaini Ismaila, the Special Adviser on Muslim Affairs to Governor Agbu Kefas of Taraba State, describing the demands as baseless and politically motivated.
Addressing journalists at a press conference on Tuesday in Jalingo, Gazail rejected allegations made by a group seeking Ismaila’s removal, stating that the campaign lacked credibility and does not reflect the views of the broader Muslim community in the state.
He alleged that the group’s spokesperson is a known political figurea in the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) and a lecturer at Taraba State University, Jalingo.
The Islamic cleric said that the calls for the sack of the governor’s aide was influenced by political interests, rather than genuine religious concerns.
Representing several Muslim organizations at the briefing, Gazail acknowledged the group’s right to express their views, but emphasized that their claims were not representative of the larger Muslim population.
He described the agitation as “misleading and politically motivated.
“Since assuming office, Alhaji Hussaini Ismaila has worked tirelessly to ensure inclusive representation of Muslims in government and has served as a strong link between the Muslim community and the administration of Governor Agbu Kefas,” Gazail said.
He further highlighted Ismaila’s efforts in promoting unity among Islamic clerics, preventing disunity, and fostering peaceful cooperation across religious lines.
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According to him, the adviser has played a key role in the equitable distribution of financial and material support to clerics during major religious celebrations such as Sallah.
Gazail urged those behind the campaign to seek constructive engagement through appropriate channels, rather than promote division within the Muslim community.
He also praised Ismaila’s commitment to strengthening inter-faith relations, noting that his initiatives have significantly enhanced peaceful coexistence between Christians and Muslims in the state.
Gazail concluded by reaffirming that Alhaji Hussaini Ismaila continues to enjoy widespread support from leading Islamic groups across Taraba, insisting that the call for his removal does not reflect the collective will of the Muslim community.