Gumi Rejects Claims of Supporting Banditry, Threatens Legal Actions

Prominent Islamic cleric, Ahmad Abubakar Mahmoud Gumi, has strongly denied allegations linking him to statements supporting or justifying banditry in Nigeria, describing such claims as false, manipulated, and malicious.

In a press release issued on Friday, Sheikh Gumi said he had observed a growing trend of being misquoted in media interviews, public lectures, and public discourse relating to insecurity and banditry in the country.

According to him, some “ethnic-interest groups, prejudiced individuals, and sectional internet content creators” have deliberately distorted his comments and circulated sensational headlines to attract attention at the expense of national unity and the suffering of victims of violence.

“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.

The cleric reaffirmed his loyalty to Nigeria, describing the country as a nation with unmatched potential. He urged the public, media organizations, and government authorities to disregard what he called fake and doctored materials currently being circulated online.

Sheikh Gumi also warned that individuals or groups who continue to spread false information against him after the release of the statement could face legal consequences.

“Anyone who continues, from the date of this release, to circulate falsehoods against me shall be liable to legal action,” he warned.

Addressing the broader issue of insecurity, the cleric expressed hope for national healing and called for collective efforts to end violence and banditry across the country.

He said lasting peace can only be achieved by tackling the root causes of insecurity, including ignorance, poverty, and social injustice.

The statement comes amid ongoing national conversations about insecurity and efforts by authorities and stakeholders to curb violent attacks and criminal activities in several parts of Nigeria.