Prominent Islamic cleric Ahmad Gumi has denied allegations linking him to statements allegedly supporting banditry in Nigeria.
In a statement shared on his verified Facebook page, the cleric insisted that videos, messages, and comments currently circulating online about him were manipulated and deliberately misrepresented.
According to Gumi, some of his previous interviews and comments regarding insecurity in Nigeria are being twisted by individuals and groups pursuing biased agendas.
He accused certain ethnic-interest groups and online content creators of using sensational headlines and edited materials to generate attention and public outrage.
The cleric firmly rejected claims that he had ever justified or defended criminal activities.
“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.
Gumi urged Nigerians, media organisations, and government authorities to disregard what he described as fake, manipulated, and doctored content being circulated online.
He also warned that individuals spreading false claims about him could face legal consequences.
“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 further expressed hope for peace and national unity while sympathising with victims affected by violence and insecurity across the country.
He said Nigeria must work towards lasting solutions to insecurity, which he claimed has been worsened over time by ignorance, poverty, and social injustice.
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