The Nigerian Muslim community has strongly condemned the circulation of a fabricated story linking the sacred Ihram garment to fetish practices, demanding the immediate prosecution of one Akamara and his alleged accomplices behind the viral misinformation.
The controversy erupted after Akamara, through a video widely circulated on social media, falsely alleged that the white garment worn by Muslim pilgrims during Hajj symbolized fetish rituals. The claims, seen by many as deliberate religious provocation, have drawn widespread outrage across the country, with prominent Islamic organizations calling for urgent legal action.
In a swift reaction, the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) described the allegations as “an irresponsible and incendiary attack on the faith of millions.” The Council warned that such reckless misinformation, if left unchecked, could endanger Nigeria’s fragile religious harmony. It called on security agencies to investigate and prosecute those responsible for the incitement.
Similarly, the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC), in a statement signed by its Director, Professor Ishaq Akintola, said Akamara’s claims were “not only baseless but a grave insult to Islam.” He stressed that the Ihram remains a symbol of purity, unity, and total submission to Allah, and condemned any attempt to distort its significance as malicious and intolerable.
“The sanctity of religious symbols must be protected by law. Freedom of speech does not cover the right to fabricate lies that threaten public peace,” MURIC emphasized.
Legal experts have also weighed in, noting that Akamara’s actions could constitute offenses under Nigeria’s laws on hate speech and religious incitement. Some senior lawyers argued that public dissemination of falsehoods targeting religious practices falls squarely within prosecutable offenses aimed at preserving public order.
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) also reacted to the development, describing the viral claims as “completely unfounded and deeply mischievous.” NAHCON reiterated that the Ihram is a sacred requirement for pilgrims, signifying humility, equality, and spiritual purity before Allah — and must never be misrepresented.
Across social media, Nigerian Muslims have continued to reject the fabricated narrative, with many demanding a public apology from Akamara, alongside prosecution to set a precedent against religious disinformation.
As at the time of filing this report, Akamara had yet to publicly respond to the widespread condemnation. Meanwhile, pressure continues to mount on law enforcement agencies to act decisively to safeguard religious sanctities and maintain national cohesion.
