Gumi Dissociates Self From Reports Linking Him To Banditry

Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has strongly denied reports circulating online that link him to alleged support for banditry in Nigeria, describing the claims as false, doctored, and deliberately manipulated for ethnic and sectional agendas.

In a press statement issued in Kaduna on Saturday, Gumi said several video clips, written statements, and audio materials being shared on social media had been taken out of context or completely fabricated to misrepresent his position on insecurity in the country.

“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 said.

The cleric maintained that his past comments on insecurity, including interviews and public lectures, had been deliberately twisted by online content creators in search of sensational narratives and traffic engagement.

He reaffirmed his loyalty to Nigeria, describing the country as one with “unmatched potential,” while urging the public, media organisations, and government authorities to ignore misleading materials being circulated in his name.

Gumi further warned that individuals or groups who continue to spread such allegations against him from the date of the statement should be prepared to face legal consequences.

Beyond the denial, he expressed optimism that Nigeria would eventually overcome its security challenges, noting that victims of violence across the country deserved national and international solidarity.

He attributed the persistence of insecurity to deeper structural issues such as ignorance, poverty, and widespread social injustice, calling for long-term solutions rather than superficial responses.

His comments come amid ongoing national debates over security management and the role of dialogue versus military force in addressing armed groups operating in parts of northern Nigeria.