Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has denied allegations linking him to support for banditry in Nigeria, describing materials circulating online as false and manipulated. In a statement issued in Kaduna on Saturday, Gumi said the reports were deliberately doctored by individuals and groups pursuing ethnic and sectional interests.
The cleric explained that some of his previous media interviews, lectures, and comments on insecurity had been twisted and taken out of context by internet content creators seeking attention and online traffic. He stressed that he has never supported or justified criminal activities carried out by bandits anywhere in Nigeria.
“I hereby state unequivocally that any video clip, written statement, or message attributed to me suggesting support for banditry does not emanate from me,” Gumi said in the statement.
He urged the public, media organisations, and government agencies to ignore misleading materials being shared in his name across social media platforms. According to him, the spread of false information has contributed to misunderstanding and unnecessary controversy surrounding his public comments on insecurity in northern Nigeria.
Gumi also warned that anyone continuing to circulate false claims against him after the release of his statement could face legal action. He maintained that his comments on insecurity have always been aimed at finding peaceful and lasting solutions to the crisis affecting several communities across the country.
The cleric reaffirmed his loyalty to Nigeria and expressed optimism that the country would eventually overcome its security challenges. He noted that Nigeria remains a nation with enormous potential despite ongoing problems related to violence and inility.
He further stated that insecurity in the country is being fueled by poverty, ignorance, unemployment, and social injustice. According to him, addressing those root causes is essential to achieving lasting peace and ility.
Gumi concluded by expressing sympathy for victims of violence and called for stronger collective efforts from Nigerians and the international community to end insecurity across the country.
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