Gumi banditry support claims dismissed by the cleric, who says fake videos and statements were manipulated to damage his reputation

Prominent Islamic cleric Ahmad Gumi has distanced himself from alleged statements and online materials linking him to support for banditry in Nigeria, describing the circulating reports as fake, manipulated and deliberately misleading.

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In a press statement issued in Kaduna on Saturday, Ahmad Gumi said several video clips, written statements and online messages attributed to him had been doctored by individuals and groups pursuing ethnic and sectional interests.

The cleric stated that some of his previous media interviews, public lectures and comments on insecurity had been taken out of context by online content creators seeking sensational attention and internet traffic.

“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,” Ahmad Gumi said.

The Gumi banditry support claims have generated public debate in recent years amid Nigeria’s worsening security crisis, particularly in parts of the North-West where armed gangs have carried out kidnappings, killings and attacks on communities.

Ahmad Gumi reaffirmed his loyalty to Nigeria, describing the country as a nation with enormous potential despite its security and social challenges.

The cleric urged members of the public, media organisations and government agencies to disregard any false or misleading materials circulating in his name.

He also warned that individuals or groups continuing to spread what he described as fabricated content against him could face legal action.

The Kaduna-based cleric expressed hope that Nigeria would eventually overcome insecurity and that victims of violence across the country would find comfort in the collective efforts of citizens, authorities and the international community.

Ahmad Gumi attributed the persistence of insecurity to factors including poverty, ignorance and social injustice, while calling for sustainable and long-term solutions to the crisis.

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The renewed denial comes as debates continue over the role of religious leaders, community engagement and dialogue in addressing Nigeria’s complex security challenges.