Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has denied allegations linking him to support for banditry in Nigeria, describing circulating online claims and media content as false, manipulated, and deliberately misrepresented.
In a statement issued on Saturday in Kaduna, Gumi said several videos, interviews, and written materials attributed to him had been doctored or taken out of context by individuals and groups seeking to promote ethnic and sectional narratives or generate online traffic.
He firmly rejected any suggestion that he has ever supported or justified criminal activities.
“I hereby state unequivocally that any video clip, written statement, or message attributed to me… suggesting support for, justification of, protection of, or advocacy for banditry… does not emanate from me,” he said.
Gumi reaffirmed his loyalty to Nigeria, describing the country as one with significant potential despite its ongoing security challenges.
He urged members of the public, media organisations, and government agencies to disregard what he called misleading content being circulated in his name.
The cleric also warned that individuals or groups continuing to spread false allegations against him could face legal action.
Gumi expressed optimism that Nigeria would eventually overcome its insecurity crisis, stressing the need for collective efforts to address violence affecting various parts of the country.
He attributed the persistence of insecurity to factors including poverty, ignorance, and social injustice, and called for long-term solutions aimed at restoring peace and stability.
