Prominent Islamic scholar Sheikh Ahmad Abubakar Mahmoud Gumi has strongly denied allegations linking him to support for banditry, saying his comments have repeatedly been taken out of context by the media. The cleric said he has been misquoted across interviews, lectures, and public discussions, creating a false impression of his stance on insecurity in the North.
Gumi, known for his advocacy of dialogue with armed groups as a path to peace, clarified that his calls for negotiation were aimed at de-escalation and rehabilitation, not endorsement of criminal activity. He stressed that he has consistently condemned violence and the killing of innocent civilians.
The denial comes amid renewed public debate over his past engagements with bandit groups in forests across Zamfara, Kaduna, and Niger states. Critics have accused him of legitimizing bandits, while supporters argue his approach offers a non-kinetic alternative to military operations that have often failed to end the crisis.
In his latest statement, Gumi urged journalists and commentators to verify his remarks before publication, warning that distorted reports only deepen mistrust and worsen the security situation. He maintained that his only interest is to see peace restored and communities protected.
The scholar also called on the government to distinguish between dialogue efforts and support for terrorism, saying misrepresentation could discourage other clerics and community leaders from intervening. He reiterated that Islam prohibits the taking of innocent lives and the destruction of property.
Gumi concluded by appealing to Nigerians to focus on solutions rather than blame games, saying the banditry crisis requires honest conversation, intelligence-driven security work, and economic opportunities for marginalized youth. He said he remains committed to preaching peace and will continue to engage all parties within the bounds of the law.
