Deji Adeyanju calls for arrest of Sheikh Gumi over pro-bandit remarks

Activist lawyer Deji Adeyanju has called on the Federal Government to immediately arrest controversial Islamic cleric Ahmad Gumi over comments he allegedly made concerning bandits and the country’s worsening security situation.

Adeyanju’s demand follows the circulation of a viral video in which Gumi was heard making remarks about Fulani herdsmen. In the footage, the cleric reportedly stated that “Fulani herdsmen are part of us and we are part of them. We must live with them.”

The comments have triggered widespread debate on social media, with critics accusing Gumi of appearing to defend or sympathise with armed groups widely blamed for kidnappings and violent attacks across parts of the country.

READ ALSO: Saudi Arabia deports Sheikh Gumi, cites concerns over political views

Reacting on his verified Facebook page on Wednesday, Adeyanju argued that individuals perceived to be sympathetic to terrorist elements should be treated as terrorists under the law.

“People like Gumi can only survive in a country without a government. Terrorists sympathizers are terrorists. His words and actions promote terrorism in Nigeria. I call on the government to arrest him to serve as a deterrent to others,” he wrote.

The activist maintained that failure to take action against alleged enablers of violent groups undermines ongoing efforts by security agencies to curb banditry and terrorism.

Nigeria has battled years of insecurity, including banditry, kidnapping-for-ransom and insurgent activities, particularly in parts of the North-West and North-East.

Public figures’ comments on the crisis have often generated controversy, especially when perceived as conciliatory toward armed groups.

Sheikh Gumi has in the past advocated dialogue and engagement with armed bandits as a pathway to peace — a position that has drawn both support and sharp criticism from different quarters.

As of the time of filing this report, there has been no official response from the Federal Government or security agencies regarding Adeyanju’s call for the cleric’s arrest.

The development has further fueled national conversation on the limits of free speech, the definition of terrorism under Nigerian law, and the government’s approach to tackling insecurity.