Controversial Islamic scholar and public commentator, Ahmad Abubakar Gumi, has distanced himself from allegations linking him to support for banditry, stating that he has been repeatedly misrepresented in sections of the media and online platforms.
In a press statement issued on Saturday from Kaduna, Gumi expressed concern over what he described as persistent misquotations from his media interviews, public lectures, and discussions surrounding insecurity and banditry in Nigeria.
He alleged that certain ethnic-interest groups, prejudiced individuals, and some online content creators have manipulated his comments and circulated misleading narratives, allegedly using sensational headlines to attract public attention.
The cleric firmly rejected any claims suggesting that he supports, justifies, protects, or advocates banditry in Nigeria or elsewhere, emphasizing that such messages do 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,” the statement read.
Gumi described himself as a loyal citizen committed to Nigeria’s progress and development, expressing confidence in the country’s potential.
He called on the public, media organisations, and government authorities to disregard what he termed fake, manipulated, and doctored materials allegedly being circulated in his name.
The Islamic scholar also warned that individuals or groups who continue to spread false information against him risk facing legal consequences.
Addressing Nigeria’s broader security challenges, Gumi expressed hope for national healing and offered sympathy to victims affected by violence across the country.
He further stressed the need for collective efforts by both Nigeria and the international community to address insecurity, which he said has been worsened by factors including poverty, ignorance, and social injustice.
By Adewale Adewale
