The Department of State Services (DSS) has arrested Sheikh Daood Imran Molaasan, a prominent Islamic cleric and leader of the Osun-based Ta’awunu Muslimeen group, following a pro-Palestinian protest held recently in Iwo, Osun State.
According to anonymous report, the cleric was picked up after a viral video surfaced online showing him leading a rally where demonstrators waved Palestinian flags and chanted solidarity slogans in support of Palestine.
The demonstration has since sparked widespread reactions across social media, with security analysts and citizens expressing concern over its timing and implications.
Critics have argued that such public displays, though rooted in global Muslim solidarity, could be misinterpreted or hijacked amid Nigeria’s volatile security climate, particularly as the country continues to battle terrorism, religious extremism, and youth radicalisation.
Eyebrows were also raised over the presence of children in the protest and the synchronized hand gestures of the participants, which some commentators controversially likened to extremist symbolism. Others called for restraint, noting that Ta’awunu Muslimeen has a history of peaceful advocacy and had staged a similar protest in 2018 without incident.
The DSS has not released an official statement as of press time, leaving questions unanswered about the nature of Sheikh Molaasan’s arrest, whether it is an interrogation or the start of formal legal proceedings.
In the meantime, the development has intensified debate about freedom of expression, religious advocacy, and national security, as Nigerians await further clarification from authorities.
