Prominent Islamic scholar from Kaduna, Sheikh Ahmad Abubakar Gumi, has disclosed his recent interaction with the Department of State Services (DSS). The meeting was aimed at discussing potential solutions to the rampant banditry in the country, particularly in the northern regions. Gumi described the meeting as productive and necessary.
The Information and National Orientation Minister, Mohammed Idris, confirmed on Monday that Sheikh Gumi was summoned for his controversial comments on banditry. He emphasized that no individual is exempt from the law.
In a social media post titled “Only one person is not above the law: The Innocent!” Gumi reassured his followers, stating that the meeting was cordial and respectful. He stressed the need for national unity and collective efforts to combat banditry.
Gumi has previously questioned the federal government’s authority, under President Bola Tinubu, to label individuals as terrorists. This follows the release of alleged “terrorist financiers,” which sparked debates about the validity of such claims.
President Tinubu has faced allegations of drug trafficking and money laundering during his time in the U.S. Recent findings from Chicago State University have added to the skepticism, revealing inconsistencies in Tinubu’s academic records.
Amid these revelations, the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) identified 15 entities suspected of funding terrorist activities. Among the listed is Tukur Mamu, a Kaduna-based publisher with known connections to Sheikh Gumi. Mamu is currently on trial for allegedly assisting the terrorists behind the Abuja-Kaduna train attack in March 2022.
Former President Muhammadu Buhari’s Media Aide, Bashir Ahmad, released the names of those implicated in terrorism financing, underscoring the government’s commitment to legal consequences.
At a Daily Trust event, Sheikh Gumi warned against hasty judgments, especially media trials. He urged patience for the court’s verdict in Mamu’s case and stressed the importance of due process and fair trials.
Gumi acknowledged his interactions with various individuals, including those with questionable reputations. He drew comparisons with pastors counseling confessed criminals and advocated for the presumption of innocence until proven guilty.
Given the complexities of Mamu’s case, Gumi highlighted the need for a transparent legal process. He expressed hope for a fair trial and emphasized the importance of factual evidence in court verdicts.
In summary, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi’s comments underscored the need for justice and due process, especially in high-profile cases.
