Kaduna-based Islamic cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Abubakar Mahmoud Gumi, has dismissed claims linking him to the promotion or support of banditry, insisting that his comments have consistently been misrepresented in interviews, sermons and public engagements.
In a statement shared on his verified Facebook page, the cleric accused what he described as “certain ethnic-interest groups, individuals driven by prejudice, and some sectional internet content creators” of circulating distorted materials and misleading headlines aimed at tarnishing his image.
“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.
Gumi maintained that the materials being circulated online were fabricated and manipulated, calling on members of the public, government institutions and media organisations to ignore them.
“I am a loyal citizen of my beloved country, a nation whose potential I believe is unmatched anywhere in the world,” he added.
The Islamic scholar further warned that individuals or groups who continue to spread false information against him after the release of the statement could face legal consequences.
“Furthermore, anyone who continues, from the date of this release, to circulate falsehoods against me shall be liable to legal action,” he stated.
Gumi also expressed optimism that Nigeria would eventually overcome its security challenges while offering prayers for victims affected by violence in different parts of the country.
“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,” the statement read.
