Embattled Kaduna-based Islamic scholar, Sheikh Khalifa Sani Abdulkadir, who was declared missing by his family weeks ago, is alive and currently in “protective custody” under federal security authorities.

A senior intelligence source disclosed that the cleric is being investigated by a joint team of the Nigerian military and the Department of State Services (DSS) over alleged links to a foiled coup plot against the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

According to the source, the investigation was triggered by a financial transaction traced to the scholar’s bank account. About ₦2 million was reportedly transferred to him by a military officer identified as a key suspect in the alleged plot.

“Sheikh Khalifa is alive and in custody. His arrest followed the discovery of funds in his account linked to one of the officers under investigation,” the source said.

However, individuals close to the cleric’s family have dismissed the allegation, insisting the transaction was a routine spiritual offering. They explained that the officer allegedly obtained the Sheikh’s account details through a student and sent the money as a request for prayers and blessings, a practice they described as common among followers.

“There was no political discussion or criminal intent. It was simply a request for prayers,” a family source stated.

The cleric’s disappearance earlier in 2026 sparked concern after he reportedly travelled to Abuja to address the sudden freezing of his bank account, after which his family lost contact with him.

Meanwhile, legal efforts to secure his release are ongoing. His fundamental rights enforcement suit, filed at the Federal High Court in Abuja, has been heard twice, with proceedings adjourned until April 10, 2026, for judgment.

Security sources maintain that the cleric will remain in custody pending the conclusion of investigations and may be formally charged alongside other suspects.

Sheikh Abdulkadir, a respected figure in Kaduna’s religious community, has seen his continued detention without formal charges draw criticism from supporters, who argue that the financial transaction does not justify his incarceration.