Controversial Islamic Scholar Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has reacted to concerns regarding his recent trip to Ibadan, arguing that he has freedom to go anywhere in the country.
Gumi alleged in a Facebook post that South West Nigeria may be experiencing Islamophobia, which is likely influencing political moves in the region.
He explained that his recent trip to Ibadan, Oyo state was to participate in a gathering of Muslim scholars discussing national issues including the country’s worsening security.
He stressed that he wasn’t invited by any South West individual or group. Instead, he claimed that his trip was an official assignment as a representative of the Coalition of Northern Muslim Ulama.
Sheikh Gumi highlighted that there’s a need to understand the root causes of insecurity in Nigeria to address it. According to him, these issues include illiteracy, unemployment and alleged marginalization of certain communities.
He argued that while security operations remain necessary, there should be engagement, dialogue, and rehabilitation to tackle the issues.
Gumi’s statement comes amid ongoing controversies and concerns following the rumors that the perpetrators of the Oyo Kidnap requested for the introduction of Sharia Law in the state. This led to massive calls alongside allegations against the organizers of the event Gumi attended in Ibadan.
In response, Gumi stated that he was being unnecessarily drawn into local political issues. He added that he has the constitutional right to move freely across Nigeria without questions or restrictions.
