Prominent Islamic scholar Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has issued a stark warning about Nigeria's deepening security collaboration with the United States. He argues that recent precision airstrikes on terrorist camps in the country's Northwest could dangerously transform Nigeria into a theatre of war.
Gumi's Critique of Foreign-Led Operations
While acknowledging that eliminating terrorists is an Islamic obligation, Gumi contended that such actions must be executed by "clean and holy hands." He expressed deep skepticism about foreign forces, citing their historical record of civilian casualties. The cleric, reacting to reports of US-backed airstrikes, stated that this move represents a significant strategic error for Nigeria.
"This is the mistake Nigeria has made," Gumi said. He questioned the narrative of foreign intervention, suggesting that "terrorists don't fight terrorists in truth" and may have ulterior motives behind the public display of combating terror.
Risk of Religious Polarisation and Sovereignty Concerns
A core part of Gumi's warning focuses on the potential for religious strife. He cautioned that framing US involvement as protection for Christians could severely inflame tensions and damage national cohesion. The scholar described the recent airstrike in Sokoto—a predominantly Muslim area he claims had no imminent threat—as "symbolic" and questioned its timing on Christmas Eve.
"The US involvement in Nigeria will attract the real anti-US forces, making our land the theatre of war," Gumi asserted. He further argued that "the USA's involvement in Nigeria, citing coming to 'protect Christians', will ultimately polarise our nation and infringe on our sovereignty."
Call for Alternative Partners and Ground Strategy
Gumi urged the Nigerian government to immediately halt military cooperation with the United States, which he accused of "imperial tendencies worldwide." Instead, he proposed seeking assistance from nations he views as more neutral, specifically naming China, Turkey, and Pakistan as capable alternatives.
He also downplayed the effectiveness of aerial bombardments alone, emphasising the need for a robust ground military presence. "Dropping a few bombs here and there cannot tackle the menace of terror," Gumi stated, adding that Nigeria has sufficient manpower if deployed seriously. He called on affected villages to document and share evidence of any casualties from the strikes.
The Federal Government, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, has defended the international cooperation. It stated that all counter-terrorism efforts are conducted with respect for Nigeria's sovereignty and international law, prioritising the protection of all civilian lives irrespective of religion or ethnicity. The ministry reaffirmed that structured intelligence sharing with partners like the US remains a key part of the strategy to curb terrorism.
