Controversial Islamic cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, has denied allegations linking him to comments supporting banditry in Nigeria, describing the claims as false, manipulated and malicious.
In a statement shared on his verified Facebook page on Saturday, Gumi said some of his past media interviews on insecurity and banditry were being deliberately twisted by what he called “ethnic-interest groups, individuals driven by prejudice, and sectional internet content creators.”
According to the cleric, such individuals were using “sensational and outrageous headlines” to attract public attention and online traffic without regard for the pain caused by insecurity across the country.
Gumi maintained that he had never supported, justified or encouraged banditry in any form.
“I hereby state unequivocally that any video clip, written statement, or message attributed to me, whether directly or by innuendo, suggesting support for, justification of, protection of, or advocacy for banditry in Nigeria or anywhere else does not emanate from me,” he stated.
Describing himself as a loyal citizen committed to the progress of Nigeria, Gumi urged the public and relevant authorities to ignore the materials circulating against him.
“I, therefore, urge the general public, the media, and the Nigerian state to disregard such fake, manipulated, and doctored materials currently in circulation,” he added.
The cleric also warned that anyone found spreading false claims against him after the release of the statement would face legal action.
He further expressed hope for peace and healing in the country while sympathising with victims of violence and insecurity nationwide.
“I sincerely hope that our great nation will heal, and that all victims affected by this violence will find comfort in the collective determination of the nation and the international community to achieve a lasting solution to the insecurity fueled over time by ignorance, poverty, and widespread social injustice,” Gumi said.
The post Videos, Statements Of Me Supporting Bandits Fake — Gumi appeared first on OsunDefender.
