AN ALLEGED extremist has told jurors it is the Prime Minister’s turn to cover his face - after Boris Johnson previously compared Muslim women to “letterboxes”.

Abubaker Deghayes, of Saltdean, is accused of encouraging terrorism when he addressed worshippers at the Brighton Mosque and Muslim Community Centre in November 2020.

Giving evidence at the Old Bailey, Deghayes explained why he had referred to Mr Johnson’s comments about face covering in his speech to around 50 people, including children.

“I’m talking about how circumstances are ruled by Allah,” he said. “Now he [Mr Johnson] is putting a cloth on his face because of circumstances.”

Tom Wainwright, defending, asked him: “What cloth was he putting over his face?”

Deghayes replied: “The face mask. Not only he is wearing the face mask but places the policy and obligation that everybody wears the mask.”

Judge Nigel Lickley asked: “You are talking about a coronavirus mask covering your face?”

Deghayes responded: “Yes.”

The Argus: Abubaker Deghayes, of Saltdean Abubaker Deghayes, of Saltdean

Later in his speech at the mosque, the 53-year-old allegedly claimed that violent jihad is compulsory, and made a stabbing gesture.

In a video shown to jurors, Deghayes said: “Whose power is more powerful than us? Allah is more powerful than you. You, idiots. You kuffar (non-believers). The non-believer is an idiot. He’s stupid.

“Jihad, Jihad, Jihad. Jihad is compulsory. Jihad is fighting by sword. That means this Jihad is compulsory upon you, not Jihad is the word of mouth, but Jihad will remain compulsory until the Day of Resurrection.”

Deghayes gave evidence wearing a black hooded top with Free Palestine on it, similar to one he was seen wearing in the video.

He denies a charge of encouraging terrorism.