A Katsina-based businessman, Alhaji Jibrin Tanimu, has petitioned the Katsina State Governor, alleging that operatives of the state Hizbah Board raided his residence in the early hours of March 10 and that more than ₦200 million went missing during the operation.
According to the petition submitted through his lawyer, Hizbah officers arrived at Tanimu’s home in the Modoji area of Katsina at about 1:20 a.m., forcibly entered the premises and arrested him over a complaint related to a business transaction.
The petition stated that the operation violated legal procedures governing arrests and investigations, citing the timing and manner in which the officers carried out the raid.
It further alleged that ₦221 million, reportedly kept in the house for business purposes, was discovered missing after the incident. The lawyer also claimed that about 25 Hizbah personnel were involved and that Tanimu was driven around Katsina before being taken to the agency’s office.
According to the lawyer, the matter was already before Upper Shari’a Court 11 in Katsina, with a hearing scheduled for March 25. The court was said to have issued a directive to the Hizbah Commander, informing the agency that the case was pending and requesting Tanimu’s release.
However, the petition alleged that the officers instead transported him to Kano State, where the original complaint was filed. He was later released in Kano.
DCG Opporation for the Katsina State Hizbah Board, Muhammad Sha'aibu Shitu, confirmed that officers went to Tanimu’s residence at night but said the action was based on a court order.
Muhammad Shu'aibu said officers had earlier attempted to locate Tanimu without success, prompting the late-night visit. He added that upon arrival, Tanimu raised an alarm, shouting “thieves.”
He denied that officers entered the inner parts of the house, stating that they remained within the compound and did not access private rooms.
According to him, the case involves allegations of obtaining money under false pretence, with complainants accusing Tanimu of collecting funds for job placements and issuing fake employment documents. He said the case was filed in Kano, leading to a directive for Tanimu to be brought there.
Maslaha added that the involvement of a Hizbah member in the case required the agency’s intervention to facilitate his transfer to Kano.
Tanimu has denied the allegations, stating that the matter is a business dispute already before a court. He said the issue arose after parties to the agreement demanded a refund, which led to legal proceedings.
