In a significant legal development, the Upper Shari’a Court in Bauchi has once again issued an arrest warrant for Chief Imam Idris Abdul’azeez Dutsen Tanshi, marking a pivotal turn in the ongoing legal saga surrounding his alleged involvement in incitement of public disturbance of peace and blasphemy.
The decision came after the embattled Imam failed to appear in court on January 17, 2023, leading the presiding Judge, Malam Hussaini A. Turaki, to take decisive action.
The defense counsel proposed considering the Court of Appeal’s order in Jos, presenting an alternative perspective.
However, Judge Turaki disagreed with this suggestion, emphasizing the need for the accused person to personally appear in court, given the gravity of the criminal charges.
Dutsen Tanshi is facing trial in connection to a petition alleging that he made blasphemous comments against Prophet Muhammad (Peace be Upon Him) and notable Dariqa clerics during one of his Ramadan Tafsir sessions.
The case has garnered attention for its potential implications on issues of religious sensitivity and freedom of expression.
Despite a previous grant of bail, the presiding judge, after evaluating arguments from both counsels, asserted the necessity for the accused to be physically present in court.
The criminal nature of the charges, which involve incitement of public disturbance of peace and blasphemy, further reinforced the judge’s stance on the matter.
Counsel to the plaintiff, UB Umar, highlighted the defendant’s consistent non-appearance despite numerous attempts to summon him, including public announcements and substitute service.
This raised concerns about the accused person’s willingness to participate in the legal proceedings.
On the defense side, Ahmad M Umar pressed for the court to uphold the Court of Appeal’s previous order, pointing out perceived errors in the revocation of bail.
The legal wrangling between the two sides underscored the complexity and sensitivity of the case.
As the proceedings unfolded, the court adjourned the case until January 24, 2024, reserving the continuation of the hearing for a later date.
The decision to adjourn also coincided with the issuance of an arrest warrant, signaling the court’s determination to ensure the accused person’s presence for the ongoing legal battle.
The unfolding legal drama surrounding Chief Imam Dutsen Tanshi raises questions not only about the specific allegations against him but also about the broader issues of religious freedom, expression, and the delicate balance the legal system must strike when dealing with matters of faith and community sensitivities.
The case, as it progresses, will undoubtedly continue to capture the attention of legal experts, religious scholars, and the public alike.
