Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has denied allegations linking him to statements supporting banditry, insisting that viral videos and messages circulating online about him were doctored and manipulated.
The prominent Islamic cleric made the clarification in a statement shared on his verified Facebook page amid renewed criticism over his past comments on insecurity in Nigeria.
“I Never Supported Banditry”
Gumi rejected claims suggesting he had ever defended or justified criminal activities carried out by armed groups across the country.
According to him, certain individuals and groups were deliberately twisting his interviews and public comments to push false narratives against him.
“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.
Cleric Claims Videos Were Manipulated
The cleric further alleged that some online content creators and ethnic-interest groups were spreading misleading content using sensational headlines for attention.
He urged Nigerians, security agencies and the media to disregard the materials currently circulating online.
“I therefore urge the general public, the media, and the Nigerian state to disregard such fake, manipulated, and doctored materials currently in circulation,” he added.
Gumi also warned that individuals responsible for spreading such claims could face legal consequences.
Calls for Peace and Healing
While reacting to the controversy, the cleric expressed sympathy for victims of violence and insecurity across the country.
He also called for national healing and collective efforts toward ending insecurity in Nigeria.
“I sincerely hope that our great nation will heal, and that all victims affected by this violence will find comfort in the collective determination of the nation and the international community to achieve a lasting solution to the insecurity fueled over time by ignorance, poverty, and widespread social injustice,” he said.
The statement has continued to generate reactions online, with Nigerians divided over the cleric’s comments and longstanding involvement in discussions around insecurity in northern Nigeria.