DSS Arrests Osun-Based Islamic Cleric Over Pro-Palestine Protest

The Department of State Services (DSS) has arrested an Osun State–based Islamic cleric, Sheikh Daood Imran Molaasan, following a pro-Palestine protest held in Iwo, Osun State.

Sheikh Molaasan, who leads the Islamic group Ta’awunu Muslimeen, was taken into custody after a video of the protest surfaced online and went viral. The footage showed the cleric and his followers chanting slogans in support of the liberation of Palestine, while waving Palestinian flags during the march. The demonstration quickly generated widespread debate on social media, with many Nigerians raising concerns over national security. Participants in the rally were seen pledging allegiance to the Qur’an and Sunnah, while some coordinated arm gestures captured in the video drew sharp criticism, with observers comparing them to Nazi-style salutes. Public concern was further heightened by the presence of children among the protesters, who were heard chanting intense religious slogans. Critics argued that involving minors in such demonstrations could expose them to radical ideologies, especially amid Nigeria’s ongoing challenges with insecurity and religious extremism. Ta’awunu Muslimeen is known for organising pro-Palestine demonstrations in the past, including a similar rally held in 2018. The group describes itself as an Islamic movement dedicated to promoting Islamic teachings and advocating for Muslim causes globally. While the DSS has not officially disclosed the specific charges against Sheikh Molaasan, security sources indicate that the arrest is linked to concerns over public order, extremist symbolism, and potential radicalisation arising from the protest. As of the time of filing this report, neither the DSS nor representatives of Ta’awunu Muslimeen have issued an official statement on the arrest. The development has continued to spark mixed reactions nationwide, with some Nigerians calling for stricter monitoring of public demonstrations, while others argue that peaceful expression of solidarity with global causes should not be criminalised. The situation remains fluid as Nigerians await further clarification from security authorities on the matter.