The Department of State Services (DSS) has reportedly arrested an Osun State–based Islamic cleric, Sheikh Daood Imran Molaasan, following a pro-Palestine protest held in the state, according to Western Post.
Sheikh Molaasan, who is the leader of the Islamic group Ta’awunu Muslimeen, was arrested after a video circulated online showing him and his followers staging a demonstration in support of Palestine, which is currently under occupation by the State of Israel. In the viral footage, members of the group were seen raising the Palestinian flag and calling for the liberation of Palestine.
The video sparked widespread reactions and intense debate on social media, with several Nigerians expressing concern over the security implications of the group’s activities. Critics questioned the nature of the protest and warned that such demonstrations could pose risks in a country already grappling with serious security challenges linked to religious extremism.
Ta’awunu Muslimeen describes itself as an organisation committed to Islamic teachings and advocacy for global Muslim causes. The group has previously organised similar demonstrations, including a pro-Palestine protest in 2018, indicating a history of public activism around the issue.
During the recent march in Iwo, participants were seen chanting religious slogans and professing allegiance to the Qur’an and Sunnah. However, certain aspects of the protest, particularly the synchronised arm movements by demonstrators, attracted criticism, with some observers drawing controversial comparisons to a Nazi-style salute.
Further concerns were raised over the presence of children in the protest, who were seen reciting intense religious chants. Analysts and members of the public noted that involving minors in such demonstrations could heighten fears, especially given Nigeria’s long-standing struggle with insurgency and radicalisation.
As of the time of this report, the DSS has not issued an official statement detailing the charges against Sheikh Molaasan or clarifying whether he is being detained for questioning or faces formal prosecution.
