Human rights lawyer and public interest advocate, Chief Malcolm Omirhobo, has formally called on the Nigerian government to immediately investigate and prosecute prominent Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmad Gumi for allegedly backing terrorism through his public statements and actions.
In a strong statement titled, “Terrorism Apology is a Crime, Government Must Investigate and Prosecute Sheikh Ahmad Gumi,” the lawyer accused the Kaduna-based cleric of aiding and justifying terrorism by consistently defending bandits and insurgents.
Omirhobo described Sheikh Gumi’s conduct as “deeply alarming,” particularly his public statements describing armed terrorists as “listening and reasonable human beings” who should be pacified rather than neutralised by the military.
Allegations of Complicity and Criminal Violation
The human rights advocate argued that Gumi’s actions go beyond mere advocacy and threaten national security.
“Gumi’s consistent public utterances, visitations to terrorist camps, and advocacy on their behalf raise serious concerns regarding national security, complicity, and the promotion of terrorism,” Omirhobo stated.
The lawyer stressed that no individual, regardless of their religious or social status, should be above the law, asserting that freedom of speech does not protect speech that promotes crime, violence, or threatens national security (citing Section 39 of the 1999 Constitution).
Omirhobo specifically cited the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, pointing out that the law criminalizes direct or indirect support for terrorist groups, their ideologies, or public justification of their actions.
He highlighted Sections 3, 5, 12, and 13 of the Act, noting that “any person who justifies, supports, or communicates with terrorists without lawful authority commits an offence punishable by imprisonment.” He also referenced the Criminal Code Act, warning that acts promoting armed rebellion are treasonable and punishable by life imprisonment or death.
Call to Government Action
Omirhobo urged key government agencies to act swiftly, demanding that the Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Police Force, Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), and the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) immediately open an investigation into Gumi’s activities.
“The Nigerian government must rise to its constitutional duty to protect lives and property. Silence in the face of bloodshed is complicity,” the lawyer demanded.
“Defending terrorists is not peace-building, it is aiding evil and undermining the Constitution of Nigeria,” he concluded.
Gumi’s Controversial Stance
Sheikh Gumi, a former army officer, has long courted controversy over his approach to resolving insecurity in Northern Nigeria. He has repeatedly advocated for dialogue, claiming that many bandits are “victims of neglect” and should be offered amnesty, similar to the strategy used in the Niger Delta.
Despite widespread public backlash, which includes accusations of legitimising terrorism, Gumi has maintained that negotiation remains the only viable path to peace, a stance that continues to divide national opinion.
