(DDM) – Islamic scholar, Sheikh Abubakar Mahmud Gumi, has cautioned Nigeria against seeking foreign assistance in tackling insecurity from partners he described as morally compromised and dangerous.
DDM reports that Gumi made the remarks in a statement posted on his official Facebook page on Sunday, where he reflected on Nigeria’s worsening security challenges and the debate around international intervention.
He acknowledged that Nigeria, like many nations, cannot confront complex security threats entirely on its own.
Gumi said it was unrealistic to assume that any country could survive modern security challenges without some form of external cooperation.
He stressed that the real issue was not whether Nigeria needed help, but the character and credibility of those offering such assistance.
According to him, accepting support from criminals, racists, religious extremists, or entities linked to genocide would only deepen Nigeria’s problems.
Gumi warned that partnerships built on unethical foundations often come with hidden political, economic, or ideological costs.
He argued that foreign actors with records of violating international law rarely act purely in the interest of peace or justice.
The cleric noted that Nigeria’s insecurity, ranging from banditry and terrorism to communal violence, has already been worsened by years of poor governance and mistrust.
He said inviting disreputable foreign forces into such a fragile environment could further inflame tensions.
Gumi maintained that security assistance must be rooted in respect for human rights, sovereignty, and international legal standards.
He cautioned that countries known for religious intolerance or racial prejudice could export those same attitudes into Nigeria’s conflict zones.
The scholar also suggested that reliance on unethical allies could damage Nigeria’s global image and weaken its moral standing internationally.
He explained that short-term military gains often come at long-term social and political costs when partnerships are poorly chosen.
Gumi’s comments come amid renewed discussions about foreign military cooperation following reports of increased international interest in Nigeria’s security situation.
Nigeria has historically worked with several foreign partners in intelligence sharing, training, and counterterrorism operations.
Some of these collaborations date back to the fight against Boko Haram in the North-East.
However, concerns have persisted over civilian casualties, sovereignty, and accountability in past joint operations.
Gumi said Nigeria must carefully evaluate both the intentions and track records of any foreign entity offering security support.
He urged policymakers to prioritise homegrown solutions while engaging only with international partners committed to justice and peace.
According to him, insecurity cannot be cured by aligning with forces that profit from chaos and violence.
He concluded that ethical, lawful, and principled cooperation remains Nigeria’s safest path toward lasting security.