Pro-democracy and human rights group, Concerned Nigerians, has called on the United States of America, USA, to investigate Minister of Communication, Isa Pantami over his alleged relationship with terrorists.
The group disclosed this in a letter signed by its convener, Deji Adeyanju and addressed to the Secretary of State through the US Ambassador in Nigeria.
Mr Pantami was dragged into terrorism controversy last weekend after a report by Daily Independent newspaper that the U.S. has placed him on watch list. The paper later retracted the story.
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Although Pantami also denounced any allegiance to Boko Haram, video showing him expressing support for global extremist groups — the Taliban and Al-Qaeda has emerged.
“This jihad is an obligation for every single believer, especially in Nigeria, Oh God, give victory to the Taliban and to al-Qaeda (Allahumma’ nṣur Ṭālibān wa-tanẓīm al Qā‘ida),” Pantami said in one of his vicious preaching in the 2000s.
However, despite his denial, Nigerians on Friday, demanded his resignation.
Concerned Nigerians asked the U.S. to investigate the allegations.
“We write to intimate you of remarks attributed to Sheik Isa Pantami, Nigeria’s Communications Minister in several media blogs in the country wherein he was quoted as saying he was always happy whenever unbelievers are killed by terrorist groups. It is also further alleged that he had in the past openly supported and endorsed global terrorist groups like Al-Qaeda and the Talibans.
“Pantami is said to have praised Osama Bin Laden describing him as a hero and a better Muslim than himself. He has not renounced these views in the face of new revelations by the media. His views are extremist views and a threat to a multi religious nation like Nigeria.
“He is a senior member of President Buhari’s regime and we are of the view that a supporter of Mullah Omar and Osama Bin Laden should not hold a sensitive position and be in charge of the database of Nigerians. We are confident that Mr. Pantami will not resign or be sacked despite the public outcry because President Buhari is drawn to men like him.
“We implore you to investigate these allegations and if true place him on your terrorist watchlist permanently. Those who express extremist views remain a threat to world peace as they support mass murder of both Christians and Muslims globally.
“This remains unacceptable. Our reply to those who say these men may have had a change of heart is that terrorists don’t repent, they are only looking for an opportunity to get close to power so they can strike harder.”
