Prominent Islamic cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, has levelled a serious accusation against unnamed foreign nations, claiming they are providing support to terrorist groups operating within Nigeria.
Allegations of External Interference
Sheikh Gumi made these claims during a recent interview with the BBC Hausa Service. He argued that the recent patterns of violent attacks across the country strongly suggest that armed groups are receiving backing from external forces.
The scholar expressed concern that the current security situation contradicts earlier signs of improvement that had been observed. He pointed to specific examples where life had begun to return to normal before a sudden and violent reversal.
Evidence of a Security Rollback
Sheikh Gumi highlighted the Abuja-Kaduna highway as a key example. This major road, once notorious as a deadly corridor for kidnappings and attacks, had reportedly become significantly safer for commuters in recent months. However, a renewed surge in violence has now shattered that fragile peace.
Furthermore, he cited the experience of farmers in Birnin Gwari, Kaduna State. These individuals, who had been forced to abandon their farmlands for years due to persistent terrorist threats, had cautiously begun to resume their agricultural activities. This return was seen as a tangible indicator of a stabilizing security environment before the latest and devastating spike in attacks.
A Call for Government Action
Gumi insisted that this sudden deterioration raises serious questions that demand answers. He urged the Nigerian government to take decisive steps in response to these alleged foreign links to insecurity.
The cleric's recommendations for the authorities include:
- Intensifying intelligence-gathering operations.
- Strengthening diplomatic engagements to address the issue internationally.
- Scrutinising all external connections that may be fuelling the crisis.
By taking these measures, Gumi believes the government can better confront the complex challenges undermining national security.
