Security agencies have quizzed Kaduna-based Islamic cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, regarding his remarks on bandit activities in the country. This move signifies the government’s firm stance that no one is exempt from accountability, particularly when national security is at risk.
Mohammed Idris, minister of information and orientation, revealed this on Monday while addressing journalists at the State House.
“Sheik Gumi and any other individual are not above the law, if he has suggestions that are good enough and that are constructive enough for the security agencies to take, they will take
“But if they think that he is also making some statements that appear to be reckless, he will also be reprimanded.
“There is nobody above the law. Let me put it here. And I’m aware that he has also been a guest of security agencies to answer questions.
“When you make remarks, especially those that border on our national security it is incumbent on our national security to think further, and they are doing just that, no one is above the law.”
Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has garnered attention and criticism for his controversial statements and engagements with bandits in recent years. His attempts to mediate and engage in dialogue with bandits, including those responsible for the abduction of students from the Kuriga Government Secondary and LEA Primary schools in Chikun LGA, Kaduna, have stirred public debate.
The abduction, which took place on March 7, led to the kidnapping of 137 schoolchildren and a teacher, all of whom were subsequently released in the early hours of a Sunday, according to Uba Sani, the governor of Kaduna. However, Sheikh Gumi’s allegations against the federal government, insinuating that it falsely accuses its adversaries of funding terrorism, have added to the controversy surrounding him.
These assertions arose following the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) disclosing the identities of 15 entities allegedly involved in financing terrorism. Consequently, demands for Sheikh Gumi’s arrest over alleged links with terrorist organizations have surged.
Mohammed Idris, the Minister of Information and Orientation, reaffirmed the government’s dedication to upholding national security and the rule of law. He stressed that while constructive contributions from any individual, including Sheikh Gumi, are appreciated, any statements deemed reckless will not be condoned.
