Ismail Abdulazeez Mantu Reporting
A 75-year-old cleric, identified as Alhaji Lambo Ilela, has been arrested by a local community watch group in Zamfara State for allegedly providing spiritual backing to bandits operating in Zamfara and Katsina States
The arrest took place following intelligence reports linking the cleric to a series of prayers purportedly aimed at aiding the success of the bandits operations.
During interrogation, the elderly cleric reportedly confessed to offering spiritual services to bandits for nearly six years.
He disclosed that his clientele initially consisted of nine gang leaders, including a notorious bandit leader, Sani Gurugu, who commands multiple gangs terrorising communities in Safana.
Ilela further admitted to receiving a payment of N1.3 million from Gurugu in exchange for his spiritual services, which he claimed were meant to enhance the bandits’ operations.
The vigilante group handed the suspect over to security forces for further investigation. The cleric confessed to have been providing “spiritual fortification” to bandit leaders, allegedly blessing their weapons and praying for the success of their missions.