Islamic scholar Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has urged President Bola Tinubu to suspend military partnerships with the United States following American airstrikes targeting terrorists in Nigeria’s northwest region.
The cleric questioned Washington’s role in Nigerian counterterrorism operations after President Donald Trump announced strikes against ISIS-affiliated militants accused of attacking Christian communities.
In a Thursday post on Truth Social, Trump stated that US forces conducted operations against terrorists “who have been targeting and viciously killing, primarily, innocent Christians.” He warned that continued attacks would bring severe consequences.
The Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs subsequently confirmed the strikes, describing them as part of existing security arrangements between the two nations.
Responding on Friday via Facebook, Gumi challenged what he termed America’s “imperial approach” and questioned its standing to conduct such operations given its military history globally.
While affirming that combating terrorism aligns with Islamic principles, Gumi argued the responsibility should rest with nations having moral credibility. “Such actions must be carried out by clean and holy hands, not by another power whose hands are stained with the blood of hundreds of thousands of innocent civilians,” he wrote.
The cleric warned that foreign involvement could escalate Nigeria’s security challenges and potentially draw anti-American groups into the country, transforming it into a conflict zone.
He expressed concern that US intervention framed as protecting Christians might deepen religious divisions and compromise national sovereignty. “The USA’s involvement will ultimately polarize our nation and infringe on our sovereignty,” he stated.
Gumi recommended Nigeria seek assistance from China, Turkey, and Pakistan instead, describing them as more suitable partners.
He also questioned the effectiveness of airstrikes, emphasizing that ground operations would yield better results. “Dropping a few bombs cannot tackle the menace of terror; they need serious military on the ground, which we have enough men to do,” he said.
The cleric noted the timing and location of the strikes—Sokoto on Christmas Eve—could be viewed as targeting predominantly Muslim areas, potentially fueling religious tensions.
Gumi called on affected communities to document any civilian casualties for accountability purposes.
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