‘This Is a Mistake’ – Sheikh Gumi Criticizes FG Over U.S. Airstrikes Against Terrorists
By Erewunmi Peace
Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmad Abubakar Gumi has criticized the Federal Government of Nigeria for allowing U.S. forces to carry out airstrikes against terrorist groups in the country.
Describing the decision as a mistake, Sheikh Gumi warned that foreign military involvement could undermine Nigeria’s sovereignty, worsen security challenges, and potentially escalate civilian casualties.
He urged the government to suspend military cooperation with the United States, suggesting that Nigeria should rely on its own security forces or seek assistance from countries he considers neutral, such as China, Turkey, or Pakistan.
Sheikh Gumi also cautioned that continued U.S. involvement could polarize the nation along religious lines and risk turning Nigeria into a theatre of war.
His comments come in response to recent U.S. airstrikes on Islamic State (ISIS)-linked militants in northwest Nigeria, which the Federal Government said were carried out in coordination with Nigerian intelligence and aimed at protecting civilians.
This development has sparked public debate about foreign military intervention in Nigeria’s fight against terrorism, with voices like Sheikh Gumi’s emphasizing caution and national sovereignty.
