Deji Adeyanju Calls for Arrest of Ahmad Gumi Over Alleged Pro-Bandit Remarks

Human rights lawyer and activist Deji Adeyanju has called on the administration of Bola Tinubu to arrest controversial Islamic cleric Ahmad Gumi over comments he described as sympathetic to bandits operating in parts of northern Nigeria.

The demand follows the circulation of a viral video in which Gumi reportedly spoke about Fulani herders and the ongoing security crisis affecting several regions of the country.

In the widely shared clip, the Kaduna-based cleric was heard saying that Fulani herders “are going nowhere,” adding that “they are part of us and we are part of them. We must live with them.”

The remarks quickly generated strong reactions online, with many Nigerians criticizing the statement amid continued concerns over kidnappings, killings, and violent attacks linked to armed groups and bandits across northern Nigeria.

Reacting through a post shared on his Facebook page, Adeyanju argued that individuals perceived to be sympathetic toward terrorists or criminal groups should be treated as accomplices under the law.

According to the activist, comments capable of encouraging or justifying violent groups undermine ongoing national security efforts and embolden criminal elements operating across the country.

He further stated that the government should take decisive action against anyone whose public remarks are viewed as promoting terrorism or creating sympathy for armed groups responsible for attacks on civilians.

Gumi has remained one of Nigeria’s most controversial religious figures in recent years due to his repeated engagements with armed bandit groups in the North-West region.

The cleric has consistently defended his interactions with bandits, insisting that his meetings were part of efforts aimed at dialogue, peacebuilding, and reconciliation. However, critics have repeatedly accused him of legitimizing criminal groups accused of carrying out mass abductions, attacks on communities, and widespread violence.

The latest controversy has once again reignited debate over the role of influential public figures in discussions surrounding Nigeria’s security crisis and whether certain comments risk complicating efforts to combat terrorism and banditry.

Nigeria has continued to battle worsening insecurity in several regions, particularly in northern states where armed groups have carried out kidnappings for ransom, village raids, and deadly attacks on travelers and communities.

As reactions continue to pour in, the federal government has yet to officially respond to Adeyanju’s call for Gumi’s arrest. However, the incident has once again placed national attention on the intersection of free speech, religious influence, and security concerns in Nigeria’s ongoing fight against violent crime and insurgency.