Police Charge Sheikh Baffa Hotoro Over Alleged Defamation of Islamic Clerics

The Nigeria Police Force has filed a six-count cybercrime case against Kano-based Salafi cleric Sheikh Adam Zubair Adam, popularly known as Baffa Hotoro, over alleged defamatory remarks about late Sheikh Dahiru Usman Bauchi and Sheikh Mannir Adam Koza, according to Daily Nigerian.

Court documents cited by the outlet show the case, marked FHC/ABJ/CR/87/2026, was filed at the Federal High Court in Abuja on May 10, 2026. Police accused the cleric of making statements on TikTok and Facebook in 2024 and 2025 that petitioners claimed could provoke tensions among followers.

The charges reportedly relate to allegations of defamation, incitement, and insulting remarks under provisions of the Cybercrimes Act and the Penal Code.

Reports said Hotoro was scheduled to appear in court on May 11, 2026, but was absent despite reportedly receiving notice. He had previously been arrested by security agencies in separate incidents before later being granted bail.

Petitions from Sheikh Mannir Adam Koza and relatives of the late Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi reportedly alleged that the cleric continued making controversial comments while investigations were ongoing.

Legal and religious observers quoted by Daily Nigerian said the case may influence discussions around religious preaching and public commentary, while warning that repeated absence from court proceedings could attract further legal action.