The Arewa Youth Assembly (AYA) has warned individuals and groups against what it described as undue interference and politicisation of the controversy surrounding Walida Abdulhadi Ibrahim.
Addressing journalists in Abuja, Speaker of the Assembly, Mohammed Salihu Danlami, said the matter should not be turned into a religious or political battle, stressing that it primarily concerns the personal relationship between two adults.
Walida is at the centre of allegations and counter-allegations involving a staff member of the Department of State Services (DSS), Ifeanyi Onyewuenyi. While Walida maintains she is 22 years old, her parents insist she went missing at the age of 16. The case has since generated heated reactions, particularly over claims of abduction, religious conversion, and forced marriage.
The DSS, however, has maintained that Walida is currently under “protective custody,” citing concerns about her safety should she be released amid heightened public tension. The agency has also provided periodic updates on its official website as part of what it describes as a transparent joint investigation process.
AYA commended the DSS for what it called adherence to its constitutional mandate, noting that the agency’s actions were taken “without fear or favour.” The group also highlighted that relevant government bodies, including the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) and the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs, had been duly notified and are participating in the investigation.
Danlami cautioned civil society groups and religious organisations against taking over the statutory responsibilities of established institutions. He stressed that the decisions emerging from the joint investigative committee were collectively agreed upon by all participating stakeholders.
The Assembly further disclosed that communication between Walida and her father had been ongoing, including reports that she initiated contact and that discussions led to a request for medical evaluation to ascertain her psychological state.
Describing the controversy as sensitive, AYA urged restraint from third parties, warning that inflamed rhetoric could worsen tensions and endanger those directly involved.
The case continues to draw national attention as investigations proceed, with stakeholders calling for calm, respect for fundamental human rights, and strict adherence to due process.
Arewa Youths Caution Against Politicising Walida Controversy
