A letter was addressed to the US Embassy by a Civil Society group, known as ‘Concerned Nigerians,’ to investigate the Minister of Communications, Isa Pantami over his alleged relationship with terrorists.
Mr Pantami had been linked with activities involving terrorism after a report by Daily Independent Newspaper that “the US has placed him on watchlist”.
The paper later retracted the story and the Minister also denied having ties with any terrorist group.
Despite his denials, Nigerians on Friday, demanded for his resignation.
On the other hand, ‘Concerned Nigerians’ in a letter signed by its convener, Deji Adeyanju, asked the United States to properly investigate the allegations.
“We write to intimate you of remarks attributed to Sheikh Isa Pantami, Nigeria’s Communications Minister in several media blogs as saying he was ‘always happy whenever unbelievers are killed by terrorists groups’. It is also further alleged that he had in the past openly supported and endorsed global terrorists group 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 had not renounced these views in the face of the 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 Osmar Bin Laden should 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 those allegations and if true place him on your terrorists watchlist permanently. Those who express extremist views remain a threat to world peace as they support mass murder to both Christians and Muslims globally.
“This remains unacceptable. Our reply to those who say these men have had a change of hearts that terrorists don’t repent, they are looking for an opportunity to get close to power, so they can strike harder,” the letter reads.
Ijeoma Njoku reporting, Obinwannem News
