Anxiety as new religious sect springs up in Northern Nigeria

A new religious sect, Achard Life Mission International, believed to be involved in human trafficking, has emerged in the northern part of Nigeria.

The sect, which neither believes in Islam nor Christianity but preaches the restoration of African traditions and supports humanity, is giving the security agencies sleepless nights.

Residents have raised the alarm over the sect and have subsequently reported it to security agencies.

Meanwhile, the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has placed men and officers of the service on red alert to curb the activities of the international sect, Achard.

A memo by the principal staff officer to the Controller General of NIS, CIS A.A. Aridegbe, for the CG, stated, “I am directed to inform you that the intelligence gathered by the service reveals the emergence of a new sect, called Achard Life Mission International.

“The intelligence reports that the sect has its headquarters in Kaduna, while its leader, Mr Yokana, lives in Jos, Plateau State.

“It further notes that the sect neither believes in Islam nor Christianity but preaches the restoration of African tradition and supports humanity.

“The intelligence further reveals that the sect has been canvassing for members both within and outside Nigeria, and it is possibly involved in human trafficking and child separation.

“In the light of the above, you are expected to stay vigilant and report immediately any sign of the sect and, where possible, arrest and revert accordingly. This is for your information and strict compliance.”