An embattled popular Islamic Cleric in Bauchi State, Sheikh Idris Abdulaziz has been declared wanted by the Police in the State.
In a Police Gazette Bulletin issued by the Bauchi State Police Command with approval from the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, Abdulaziz is wanted for alleged contempt of court.
The bulletin was made available to journalists in the State on Thursday, by the Police Public Relations Officer, Bauchi State Command, Ahmed Wakil, a Superintendent of Police with the Cleric photograph prominently displayed on it.
The last known address of the 63-year old Cleric, slim in stature and normally dresses in Hausa attire, the bulletin stated, was Dutsen Tanshi in Bauch metropolis.
According to the Police, anyone who has any information that will lead to his arrest is requested to contact the Bauchi State Command.
The renowned cleric has been having a running legal battle with the Police Command which led to his arraignment before a Bauchi Upper Sharia Court.
He was granted bail but has not been present at the Court for continuation of the case in the last two adjournment dates, forcing the Court to issue a warrant for his arrest.
“Issued by the authority of the Inspector General of Police. Imam Dr. Idris Abdulaziz, is wanted by the office of the Commissioner of Police, Bauchi State Police Command.
“Offense: Contempt of Court. If seen, arrest and hand over to the nearest Police Station or to the office of the Deputy Commissioner of Police, Criminal Investigation Department Bauchi State Command, or call, 08151849417, 09048226246.
“A handsome reward awaits any person(s) with information,” the bulletin added.
NATIONAL ACCORD reports that the popular Cleric has been on trial for alleged blasphemy in his preaching since 2022.