Ibn Kathir said regarding Muhammad bin Ali Abu Ghalib:
وهو أول من فرق الحلاوة ليلة النصف من شعبان، وكان فيه ميل إلى التشيع
He was the first to distribute sweets on the 15th night of Shabaan, He was inclined towards Tashaiyu. [al Bidaya wal Nihaya 12/27]
Ibn Kathir talking about leaving the innovations and prayers in 15th night of shabaan
He said:
وفي ليلة النصف من شعبان أبطلت صلاة ليلة النصف لكونها بدعة وصين الجامع من الغوغاء والرعاع، وحصل بذلك خير كثير ولله الحمد والمنة.
The salah of 15th night of shabaan was left because it was an innovation. And the Jamiya was saved from disgraced and wicked people, because of this many of the good was received All praise and gratitude be to Allah [Al Bidaya wal Nihaya 14/63]