Islamic cleric, Ahmad Gumi, has distanced himself from alleged statements and online materials claiming that he supports banditry and criminal activities in Nigeria.
In a statement released on Saturday in Kaduna, Gumi described the reports and video clips circulating on social media as false, manipulated, and deliberately doctored by individuals pursuing ethnic and sectional agendas.
The cleric explained that several of his past interviews, lectures, and public comments on insecurity had been twisted out of context by some online content creators searching for sensational stories and internet attention.
“I hereby state unequivocally that any video clip, written statement, or message attributed to me, whether directly or by innuendo suggesting support for, justification of, protection of, or advocacy for banditry in Nigeria or anywhere else, does not emanate from me,” he stated.
Gumi reaffirmed his loyalty and commitment to Nigeria, describing the country as a nation blessed with enormous potential and opportunities despite its current security challenges.
He appealed to members of the public, media organisations, and government institutions to ignore any misleading content being spread in his name, insisting that he has never supported criminality or violence in any form.
The Islamic scholar also warned that any individual or group that continues to circulate false claims or manipulated materials against him after the release of his statement would face legal action.
According to him, the continued spread of misinformation has contributed to unnecessary tension and misunderstanding around his comments on insecurity and peace-building efforts in parts of northern Nigeria.
Gumi further expressed optimism that Nigeria would eventually overcome its security crisis through collective efforts by citizens, security agencies, and the international community.
He also sympathised with victims of violence and insecurity across the country, while calling for practical and long-term solutions to the challenges facing affected communities.
The cleric attributed the lingering insecurity in parts of Nigeria to issues such as poverty, ignorance, unemployment, and social injustice, stressing that addressing those root causes remains important in achieving lasting peace.
What You Should Know
Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has remained one of Nigeria’s most controversial religious figures due to his repeated comments on insecurity and banditry in the North-West region.
Over the years, some of his remarks and peace outreach efforts toward armed groups have generated criticism and public suspicion, with opponents accusing him of being sympathetic to bandits.
However, Gumi has consistently denied supporting criminal activities, insisting that his interventions were aimed at promoting dialogue and reducing violence.
His latest statement appears to be an attempt to clear his name amid renewed online accusations and growing public scrutiny surrounding insecurity and the spread of misinformation on social media platforms nationwide.
