A prominent Muslim leader in Yumbe District, Sheik Kassim Abdallah, publicly apologized Friday for his alleged link to violent clashes over pork butchers last month, urging peace and coexistence between Muslims and Christians.
The November 4, 2025, confrontations erupted amid rumors that security forces would arrest Sheik Kassim following a TikTok video he allegedly posted condemning the pork business-a claim denied by security agencies.
The incident escalated tensions between religious communities, leaving property damaged and several people injured.
After spending a month in hiding, Sheik Kassim returned to Yumbe for Juma prayers at Takwa Mosque, where he was welcomed by a large crowd alongside senior security officials, including Director of Security ISO Edris Sempa, SSP Abdullah Uthuma Kitimbo of the Field Force Unit, and Regional Police Commander Joseph Mwesige.
Speaking to worshippers, Sheik Kassim said he never instructed anyone to commit violence.
“With over 35 years of preaching in the region, my mission has always been on peace and unity. I urge the affected Christian communities and business owners who lost their property and sustained injuries for forgiveness, along with the Muslim community,” he said.
“I apologize for all what has happened and I request the Muslims not to repeat what has happened again. If not my life will be in danger,” he added.
Sempa confirmed that all charges against Sheik Kassim have been dropped, allowing him to move freely and reunite with his family.
He called on the cleric to use his influence to promote peace and encourage youth participation in government programs, while urging residents to avoid unlawful acts.
Yumbe District Chairman Abdulmutalib Asiku welcomed the move, praising the government’s response and appealing for the pardon of 18 individuals currently remanded at Arua Prison in connection with the clashes.
Yumbe Resident District Commissioner Sulaiman Lubwama Bukya called for unity and truthfulness, warning against further unrest.
State Minister of Defence in charge of Veteran Affairs, Huda Oleru Abason, blamed some religious leaders for failing to guide followers responsibly, urging the community to prevent similar incidents in the future.
SSP Kitimbo, addressing congregants earlier during a community policing tour, emphasized Islam’s peaceful teachings.
“Islam is a religion that promotes peace and defense rather than aggression. Reflect on your actions, considering whether your deeds will lead you to paradise or to the fire of Hell,” he said, calling for harmony with people of other faiths.