Kaduna-based Islamic cleric, Sheikh Khalifa Sani Abdulkadir, who was previously reported missing by his family, is said to be alive and currently in the protective custody of federal security agencies.
A senior intelligence source disclosed that the cleric is being investigated by a joint team of the Nigerian military and the Department of State Services (DSS) over alleged connections to a suspected coup plot targeting the administration of President Bola Tinubu.
According to the source, the probe was initiated after a financial transaction linked to the cleric’s bank account was uncovered.
It was revealed that about ₦2 million had been transferred into Sheikh Khalifa’s account by a military officer allegedly connected to the suspected coup attempt.
“Sheikh Khalifa is alive and in good condition in protective custody. His arrest followed the discovery of funds traced to one of the military officers under investigation,” the source stated.
The official added that the cleric would remain in custody pending the conclusion of investigations.
However, individuals close to the cleric’s family have rejected the allegations, insisting that the money was merely a religious offering.
They explained that the military officer obtained the cleric’s account details through one of his students and sent the money as a request for prayers and blessings, without any political or criminal motive.
There was no political discussion or wrongdoing involved—just a request for prayers,” a family source maintained.
The cleric’s disappearance had earlier sparked widespread concern after he reportedly travelled to Abuja to resolve issues related to the freezing of his bank account.
His family said they lost contact with him shortly after the trip, raising fears about his safety.
Meanwhile, his legal team has filed a fundamental rights enforcement suit seeking his release.
The case, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/55/2026, has already been heard twice at the Federal High Court in Abuja—on February 18 and March 13, 2026—with the court adjourning proceedings to April 10, 2026, for judgment.
The intelligence source further indicated that Sheikh Khalifa may be charged alongside other suspects once investigations are concluded.
“He is likely to be arraigned in court with others after the investigation is completed,” the official said.
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