Gumi Rubbishies Tinubu Over Trump’s Airstrikes, Says Halt Nigerian Military Cooperation With US Or Face Worsening Insecurity
Islamic cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, has called on the Federal Government to immediately suspend all military cooperation with the United States following reports of US airstrikes linked to counterterrorism efforts.
In a statement posted on his Facebook page on Friday, Gumi warned that American involvement in Nigeria’s security operations could escalate violence, undermine national sovereignty, and deepen the country’s security challenges.
While acknowledging that Islam permits the fight against terrorism, the cleric argued that such efforts must be carried out by what he described as “clean hands.” He maintained that the United States lacks the moral authority to lead counterterrorism operations due to its global military record.
According to Gumi, Nigeria made a strategic mistake by allowing foreign powers to participate in its counterterrorism efforts. He insisted that “terrorists do not truly fight terrorists,” claiming that foreign interventions often result in civilian casualties and are driven by hidden political agendas.
He further warned that turning Nigeria into a theatre of war could attract anti-US forces into the country, thereby worsening instability. Gumi also cautioned that US involvement, especially under the guise of protecting Christians, could polarise Nigeria along religious lines.
The cleric stressed that airstrikes alone cannot defeat terrorism, noting that effective counterterrorism requires strong and well-organised ground operations. He argued that Nigeria has sufficient manpower to tackle insecurity if its forces are properly coordinated and equipped.
“As a principle, no nation should allow its land to be a theatre of war, and no nation should allow its neighbours to be their enemies,” Gumi said.
He suggested that if Nigeria must seek external military assistance, countries such as China, Turkey, and Pakistan would be better alternatives, claiming they could provide effective support without the risks associated with US involvement.
