Gumi denies banditry support claims, says videos were doctored

Prominent Islamic cleric Ahmad Gumi has strongly denied allegations of supporting banditry in Nigeria, describing such claims as manipulated, false, and malicious. In a statement posted on his verified Facebook page Saturday, Gumi claimed his media interviews on insecurity were being deliberately misrepresented by 'ethnic-interest groups, individuals driven by prejudice, and sectional internet content creators' using sensational headlines for online viewership.

'I hereby state unequivocally that any video clip, written statement, or message attributed to me suggesting support for, justification of, protection of, or advocacy for banditry in Nigeria does not emanate from me,' the cleric declared. Gumi described himself as 'a loyal citizen' who believes in Nigeria's potential, urging the public and authorities to disregard materials currently circulating against him.

He warned that anyone continuing to circulate what he termed falsehoods would face legal consequences. Gumi also expressed hope for national healing, sympathizing with violence victims across the country and attributing insecurity to 'ignorance, poverty, and widespread social injustice.'

With manipulated content increasingly targeting public figures, how should Nigerians verify information before sharing it online?

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/05/23/videos-statements-of-me-supporting-bandits-doctored-gumi/