By Erewunmi Peace

Reports of United States airstrikes targeting terrorist elements in parts of Sokoto State have continued to generate reactions across Nigeria, following comments by Islamic scholar Sheikh Ahmad Abubakar Gumi describing the action as a “war against Islam and Muslims in Northern Nigeria.”

According to international and Nigerian media reports, the airstrikes were carried out as part of counterterrorism operations against camps linked to the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP).

The strikes reportedly took place in remote areas believed to be used by armed groups responsible for repeated attacks on civilians and security forces in the North-West region.

The United States government stated that the operation was aimed at degrading the operational capacity of terrorist groups and was conducted in cooperation with Nigerian security authorities. Officials emphasized that the strikes were directed solely at armed militants and not at civilians or religious communities.

Reacting to the development, Sheikh Gumi criticised the operation, warning that foreign military intervention could worsen insecurity and deepen religious tensions in the region. He argued that the bombing could be perceived by local populations as an attack on Muslims, rather than a targeted counterterrorism effort, and called on the Nigerian government to review its security partnerships.

His comments have sparked widespread debate on social media and in public discourse, with some Nigerians expressing concern about national sovereignty and the humanitarian impact of airstrikes, while others argue that decisive action is necessary to combat terrorism.

The Federal Government of Nigeria has not described the operation as a religiously motivated action. Security analysts note that extremist groups operating in northern Nigeria have targeted both Muslims and Christians and have destabilized communities through kidnappings, killings, and attacks on villages.

Observers also stress the importance of clear communication from authorities to prevent misinformation and religious polarization, especially in a country with a history of sectarian tensions.

As discussions continue, analysts say long-term solutions to insecurity in northern Nigeria will require a combination of military action, community engagement, economic development, and dialogue to address the root causes of extremism.