Gumi: Why I’m against U.S airstrikes against terrorists in Nigeria

By Ayorinde Oluokun/Abuja

Controversial Islamic cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, has alleged that U.S air strikes against terrorists in Nigeria could worsen the country’s current security challenges.

Gumi said this while urging the Nigerian government to immediately suspend all military cooperation with the United States following reports of U.S. airstrikes against terrorists in North West Nigeria.

The U.S. Africa Command (AFRlCOM) had early on Friday announced the strike against terrorists in Nigeria.

AFRICOM said the strike against the terrorists was carried out based on directive of US President Donald Trump and with the cooperation of the Nigerian government.

“At the direction of the President of the United States and the Secretary of War, and in coordination with Nigerian authorities, U.S. Africa Command conducted strikes against ISIS terrorists in Nigeria on Dec. 25, 2025, in Sokoto State,” AFRICOM said.

But in a statement shared on his Facebook page on Friday, Gumi was not excited by the attack on the terrorists by the U.S forces.

According to him, while Islam permits the fight against terrorism, such efforts must be carried out by “clean hands.”

He argued arguing that the United States lacks the moral authority to lead counterterrorism operations due to its global military history.

Gumi added that it was a mistake by Nigeria to allow foreign powers to participate in its counterterrorism efforts.

He also insisted that “terrorists do not truly fight terrorists” while arguing that such interventions often result in civilian casualties and concealed political interests.

Gumi added that the strikes by AFRICOM could turn Nigeria into a theatre of war as anti-U.S. forces may make their way into the country.

He also said the airstrike by the U.S under the guise of protecting Christians, could deepen religious divisions within the country.

Gumi further noted that airstrikes alone are insufficient to defeat terrorism.

Gumi said if Nigeria should seek military assistance from China, Turkey and Pakistan if needed

According to him, effective counterterrorism requires strong ground operations, which Nigeria has the manpower to execute if properly coordinated.

“This is the mistake Nigeria has made. Terrorists do not truly fight terrorists; they often end up killing innocent people while pursuing ulterior motives under the pretext of fighting terror.

“As a principle, no nation should allow its land to become a theatre of war, and no country should permit its neighbours to become its enemies.

“If Nigeria seeks military assistance, China, Turkey and Pakistan can effectively provide such support,” he said.

Gumi has been at the forefront of calls by the Nigerian government to negotiate with bandits and terrorists to drop their criminal activities instead of using military might against them.