Kaduna-based Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmad Abubakar Gumi has publicly expressed a fervent prayer against sponsors and sympathizers of terrorism in Nigeria, calling for Allah’s anger to be poured upon them. In a pointed statement issued amid growing national insecurity, Gumi condemned those who support or enable terrorists, aligning with his long-standing position as a mediator between the Nigerian government and armed bandits.
Gumi’s recent remarks underscore his complex role in Nigeria’s security landscape, as he both negotiates peace and harshly criticizes those he believes worsen the crisis. He said, “I pray Allah’s anger pours on all terror sponsors and sympathisers,” emphasizing the spiritual imperative to confront both direct violence and its clandestine backers.
Despite accusations from some quarters that he protects bandits, Gumi has repeatedly defended his efforts at dialogue and reconciliation. He recalled past negotiations where, under government backing, he led over 600 bandits to surrender their weapons, only for the government to fail to meet their conditions. “I was at Sabon Garin Yadi forest with the Kaduna State Commissioner of Police…The outcome was that over 600 bandits agreed to lay down their arms. They presented conditions to the government. None fulfilled,” he said.
Gumi sharply criticized his detractors, labeling calls for his arrest “spineless, irresponsible, and unpatriotic imbecilic people” who choose outrage over truth. He argued that free speech is constitutionally protected and warned against intolerance: “May Allah protect our nation from bigotry, stubborn and complete intolerance of contrary views and opinions,” he prayed.
The cleric also appealed for a peaceful, pragmatic approach to Nigeria’s insecurity rather than emotional reactions. He urged security agencies “not to undermine the deal but to assist in guiding the bandits toward peaceful living,” drawing parallels to the rehabilitation of militants in the Niger Delta.
This statement comes amid ongoing debates about the best approach to Nigeria’s violent conflicts involving terrorists, bandits, and armed groups, with some calling for military force and others for dialogue. Gumi remains a controversial figure, praised by some for his humanitarian engagement and condemned by others accused of sympathizing with criminals.
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