Sheik Ahmad Gumi, a controversial Islamic cleric, has voiced his disagreement with the Federal Government’s release of a list implicating individuals and entities in terrorism financing within Nigeria.
The government’s disclosure, which pinpointed 15 entities—comprising nine individuals and six Bureau De Change operators and firms—was made public recently by the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit.
This revelation, detailed in an email titled “Designation of Individuals and Entities for March 18, 2024,” emerged after the Nigeria Sanctions Committee convened to recommend sanctions against those involved in terrorism financing.
Topping the list of individuals was Tukur Mamu, a Kaduna-based publisher and a known ally of Gumi, who currently faces charges for allegedly aiding terrorists responsible for the Abuja-Kaduna train attack in March 2022.
According to the document, Mamu was accused of participating in terrorism financing by facilitating ransom payments exceeding $200,000 USD to ISWAP terrorists in exchange for the release of hostages from the Abuja-Kaduna train attack.
However, Gumi took to Twitter spaces, organized by Daily Trust, to express his reservations regarding the list, asserting that security agencies lacked the authority to label individuals as terrorist financiers.
He adamantly declared that Nigerians would not fund terrorism, attributing terrorist financing instead to ransom payments extracted from families of kidnapped victims.
Gumi’s stance echoed a sentiment of skepticism towards the government’s assertions, questioning the basis upon which individuals are labeled terrorist financiers without due process.
He emphasized the importance of allowing the judiciary to adjudicate cases rather than subjecting accused individuals to trial by media.
Regarding Mamu’s case specifically, Gumi advocated for adherence to legal processes, affirming that Mamu should be held accountable if found guilty by a court of law and the court of public opinion.
He criticized the premature judgment of Mamu’s guilt in the media, urging patience until the court delivers its verdict.
In addition to his commentary on the terrorism financing allegations, Gumi reiterated his intention to engage in dialogue with bandits responsible for the abduction of schoolchildren in Kaduna state.
He urged President Bola Tinubu to seize the opportunity to negotiate, emphasizing the importance of dialogue in securing the release of abducted victims.
Gumi’s vocal criticism of the government’s approach to terrorism financing allegations and his advocacy for dialogue with bandits underscored his role as a prominent figure in addressing security challenges in Nigeria.
His statements sparked debate and reflection on the complexities of combating terrorism while upholding the principles of justice and due process.
As the nation grapples with ongoing security threats, Gumi’s interventions highlight the need for comprehensive and nuanced approaches to address the root causes of violence and insecurity.
