Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has explained why bandits allegedly target ordinary Nigerians instead of politicians.
The Islamic cleric claimed the criminals fear being killed by the Nigerian Army and vigilantes if they stop their activities.
His remarks about giving bandits confidence and their alleged international sponsors have triggered angry reactions on social media.
Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has stirred fresh controversy after explaining why bandits target ordinary Nigerians rather than politicians during their attacks across the country.
Gumi, in a statement circulating on social media, claimed the criminals fear being killed by security forces if they abandon their activities. He also alleged that the bandits now have international sponsors.
Gumi explains why bandits attack ordinary Nigerians
The cleric attributed the attacks on ordinary citizens to what he described as the bandits’ fear of the Nigerian Army and local vigilantes.
According to him, the criminals believe they could face deadly consequences even if they surrender or attempt to stop their activities.
Gumi said this was why they allegedly chose to attack regular Nigerians instead of directing their operations at politicians
In his words:
“Bandits told me they cannot stop, because they’ll be klled. Nigeria Army and vigilantes arrest and still kll them, why? That’s why they attack regular people, not politicians. We need to give the bandits confidence and reassurance. They now have int’l sponsors.”
The cleric’s comments have drawn attention, particularly his call for confidence and reassurance for the armed groups.
He also raised the issue of alleged international sponsors without identifying the individuals or organisations involved.
Nigerians react to Gumi’s comment
Gumi’s remarks have generated criticism from Nigerians, with several social media users questioning his position on the activities of bandits.
Some accused him of appearing sympathetic to the criminals, while others called for his arrest and further investigation into his claims.
Below are some reactions:
@uchebakaadi wrote:
“Look & Laff at d reasoning of a Spiritual leader that has followers held in high esteem in re/li/gion. “Bandits can’t stop kiing us as we r kiing dem” Sheikh listen to urself what do Dey expect? Flowers! Haba mana. They now cleverly decide not to kpai govt but local mekunu 👍”
@JunaidOlan… wrote
“Is this man working with them? Cause what the fuck is this”
@Wehdaga wrote:
“All this while they just got international sponsors, isn’t it obvious this guy is a terrorist”
@Rinsoye_d wrote:
“In other words there’s nothing like repentant terrorists or bandits”
@BeeJay6_ wrote:
“How is this man still walking free?”
@irepbdg_ wrote:
“This man should be arrested na
He knows more”
Meanwhile, Police confirmed deadly ambush as reports said the officers were travelling from Sokoto to Zamfara for a special duty assignment before being attacked by bandits
Five police officers have reportedly been killed after suspected bandits ambushed a vehicle conveying security personnel from Sokoto to Zamfara State along the Sokoto-Gusau highway, raising fresh concerns about the safety of officers and other road users in the North-West.
The attack was reported on Monday, 2 November 2026. The spokesperson of the Office of the Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG), Zone 10, DSP Abdullahi Faruk, confirmed the incident.
The incident raises questions about the safety of major highways in Nigeria’s North-West, where armed groups have continued to threaten travellers and security personnel. It also highlights the risks facing officers deployed for assignments in areas affected by insecurity.
According to reports, the officers were travelling from Sokoto State to Zamfara State when armed men ambushed the vehicle conveying them.
The officers were reportedly travelling in a convoy of three vehicles when the attackers opened fire on the vehicle bringing up the rear. Continue reading here.
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