Popular Islamic cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, has denied allegations linking him to banditry, insisting that he has never supported or justified criminal activities in Nigeria.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the Kaduna-based cleric said he had been repeatedly misquoted in interviews, lectures and public conversations on tackling insecurity and banditry.
Gumi accused certain ethnic-interest groups, prejudiced individuals and sectional online content creators of spreading misleading narratives and sensational headlines about his views.
He maintained that any video, written statement or message suggesting that he supports, protects or advocates banditry did not originate from him.
“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.
The cleric described himself as a loyal citizen committed to Nigeria’s unity and development, stressing his belief in the country’s potential.
He urged the public, media organisations and government authorities to disregard what he called fake, manipulated and doctored materials circulating against him.
Gumi also warned that individuals or groups who continue to circulate false claims about him could face legal action.
Expressing concern over Nigeria’s security challenges, he said he hoped the country would overcome the violence and insecurity affecting many communities.
He added that victims of attacks deserved support and healing through collective efforts aimed at addressing the root causes of insecurity, including poverty, ignorance and social injustice.
