Islamic scholar Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has approached a Chief Magistrate Court in Kaduna State, seeking the issuance of criminal direct complaint summons against two individuals over alleged criminal defamation, conspiracy, and attempt to cause public disturbance.
The application was filed before the Chief Magistrate Court sitting along Ibrahim Taiwo Road, Kaduna, naming George Udom and Bello Isiaka as defendants.
Alleged Facebook Publication
According to court documents, Sheikh Gumi alleged that the defendants published a statement tagged “Breaking News” on their respective Facebook pages on Tuesday, between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m.
The statement reportedly claimed that the family of Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, retired General Christopher Musa, would be eliminated if military operations against bandits were not stopped.
Gumi told the court that the statement was falsely attributed to him, adding that his photograph was allegedly used alongside the post, creating the impression that he authored or endorsed the message.
Cleric Denies Authorship, Cites Reputational Damage
The Islamic scholar stated that following the publication, he received multiple phone calls from members of the public who believed he was responsible for the alleged threat.
He said the incident portrayed him as someone attempting to intimidate a serving minister and threaten public peace, which he strongly denied.
According to him, the publication contradicts his long-standing reputation as a religious leader known for preaching peace, dialogue, and harmony within Nigeria and beyond.
Fear of Public Disorder and Personal Safety
Sheikh Gumi further argued that the alleged publication was capable of inciting public unrest, particularly in Kaduna State and Southern Kaduna, where tensions have historically been sensitive.
He expressed concern that the false attribution could expose him to danger, especially if any attack were to occur involving the Defence Minister’s family, as he could be wrongly viewed as a suspect.
Legal Basis of the Complaint
The cleric maintained that the actions of the defendants amount to criminal defamation and an attempt to cause public disturbance.
He said the alleged acts contravene Sections 59, 57, 372, 116, and 117 of the Penal Code Law of Kaduna State, 2017.
Court Filing
The application, dated December 24, 2025, was filed by a team of lawyers led by Suleiman Lere.
Sheikh Gumi is asking the court to summon the defendants to answer to the allegations and face legal proceedings over the disputed publication.
As of the time of filing this report, the court has not announced a date for hearing on the application.
