Sheikh Gumi’s Dangerous Rhetoric and Government Silence: A National Security Concern by Oloye Gbenga Oluranti Olaleye

 By Kehinde Awosina 

Nigeria continues to grapple with worsening insecurity as banditry, terrorism, kidnapping, and violent extremism persist across several states, including Zamfara, Kaduna, Sokoto, and Niger State. Amid the ongoing crisis, renewed concern has been raised over public comments attributed to Islamic cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, and what critics describe as the Federal Government’s silence in response.

In a strongly worded opinion, Oloye Gbenga Oluranti Olaleye argued that Nigeria is “bleeding” while innocent citizens are killed, abducted, and displaced almost daily. He warned that some public statements being made in the national discourse risk undermining security efforts and emboldening criminal groups.

The writer specifically referenced remarks credited to Sheikh Gumi, in which the cleric allegedly suggested that bandits are unable to abandon criminal activity because it funds their “war machine.” According to Olaleye, such comments risk normalising criminal behaviour and indirectly offering justification for violent acts carried out by armed groups.

At a time when thousands of Nigerians have suffered attacks, he stressed that no public figure should be seen as rationalising or explaining away the actions of groups responsible for mass killings and abductions.

The opinion further criticised claims allegedly made by Gumi suggesting that American intelligence agencies are involved in sponsoring Boko Haram and banditry in Nigeria. The author described the allegations as serious but unsubstantiated, warning that such statements could strain diplomatic relations and fuel misinformation if not backed by evidence.

He called on the Federal Government to take a firmer stance, insisting that silence in the face of such remarks could be interpreted as tacit approval or indifference.

“Freedom of speech does not extend to statements capable of emboldening violent groups, undermining national security efforts, or creating sympathy for terrorists,” the piece stated, adding that influential figures should be held accountable when their comments raise national security concerns.

The writer urged authorities to invite Sheikh Gumi for questioning and to investigate his repeated public comments on banditry, Boko Haram, and alleged foreign involvement. He also emphasised the need for consistency in the application of the law, regardless of religion, ethnicity, or social status.

Beyond the controversy, the article highlighted Nigeria’s broader insecurity challenges, calling for a comprehensive approach that combines military action with socio-economic reforms.

According to Olaleye, while security operations remain essential, issues such as poverty, unemployment, weak governance, and lack of education continue to fuel recruitment into violent groups. He urged the government to invest more in rural development, youth empowerment, and economic opportunities to reduce vulnerability to extremist influence.

The opinion concluded that Nigeria cannot effectively defeat insecurity if dangerous narratives are left unchallenged. It called for decisive, transparent, and non-partisan leadership in addressing the crisis, stressing that national security must remain a priority above political or religious sensitivities.