Renowned Islamic cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, has criticised the Federal Government under President Bola Tinubu over reports of United States airstrikes targeting terrorists in Nigeria, describing the move as a grave error.
In a statement shared on his Facebook page on Friday, Gumi urged the government to immediately suspend all forms of military cooperation with the United States, warning that foreign intervention could deepen Nigeria’s security crisis and erode national sovereignty.
While acknowledging that Islam permits the fight against terrorism, the cleric insisted that such efforts must be undertaken by what he termed “clean hands.” He questioned the moral credibility of the United States to lead counterterrorism operations, pointing to its history of military engagements across the globe.
According to Gumi, Nigeria erred by allowing foreign powers to participate in its counterterrorism campaign, arguing that such interventions often come with hidden political agendas rather than genuine concern for peace.
He cautioned that turning Nigeria into a theatre of war could attract anti-American forces into the country, further destabilising the already fragile security situation.
“This is the mistake Nigeria has made. Terrorists don’t fight terrorists in truth; they often end up killing innocent people while hiding ulterior motives behind the drama of fighting ‘terror,’” he said.
Gumi also warned that U.S. involvement, particularly under the guise of protecting Christians, could dangerously polarise Nigeria along religious lines.
He stressed that airstrikes alone cannot defeat terrorism, noting that sustainable security requires effective and coordinated ground operations.
“As a principle, no nation should allow its land to become a theatre of war, and no nation should turn its neighbours into enemies,” the cleric stated.
He added that if Nigeria requires external military support, countries such as China, Turkey, or Pakistan would be more suitable partners for effective assistance.
