Renowned Islamic cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, has sparked fresh controversy following his reaction to the recent neutralization of a high-ranking ISIS commander, Abu-Bilal Al-Manuki (also known as Abu-Mainok).
The ISIS leader, along with several of his lieutenants, was killed during a high-stakes joint operation involving Nigerian and United States forces in the Lake Chad Basin. The operation was recently confirmed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who hailed the strike as a significant victory in the ongoing war against global terrorism.
However, in a statement released via his official Facebook page on Tuesday, Sheikh Gumi offered a nuanced and critical perspective on the military breakthrough. While acknowledging the necessity of eliminating terrorists, the Kaduna-based cleric questioned the alliances and methods employed in the operation.
“It’s a religious obligation to annihilate terrorists, but not with Beelzebub and hands stained with the blood of innocent men, women, and children,” Gumi stated.
The cleric’s use of the term “Beelzebub”—a name frequently used to describe a demonic figure or the prince of devils—is being interpreted by many as a veiled reference to the involvement of Western powers, specifically the United States, in domestic and regional security matters.
Gumi’s remarks suggest a deep-seated reservation regarding military partnerships with foreign entities. While he affirmed that fighting terrorism is a “religious obligation,” he cautioned against carrying out such missions alongside forces he perceives as being linked to historical or systemic injustice. His mention of “blood-stained hands” points to concerns over collateral damage and the loss of innocent civilian lives during such heavy-handed military strikes.
This is not the first time Sheikh Gumi has waded into the debate over the insurgency in Northern Nigeria. He has previously been a vocal advocate for non-kinetic approaches, including dialogue and amnesty for local bandits, often arguing that military aggression only worsens the cycle of violence.
The death of Abu-Mainok is considered a major blow to the Islamic State’s operations in the Sahel region, as he was a key figure in coordinating attacks across the Lake Chad borders. Despite the strategic importance of the kill, Gumi’s comments have divided public opinion.
While some social media users criticized the cleric for “politicizing” a victory for national security, others defended his stance, arguing that Nigerian sovereignty and the protection of innocent lives must remain a priority regardless of the target.
As of the time of filing this report, the Presidency has not responded to Gumi’s statement, continuing instead to celebrate the successful cooperation between the Nigerian military and its international allies.
