THIS DAWN — A coalition of Christian leaders, civil society organisations, and traditional institutions has raised strong concerns over the presence of controversial Islamic cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, at a major public conference held by the Congregation of Southern Nigerian Ulamah in Ibadan, Oyo State.
The group expressed the concerns in a statement signed by Nuhu Agum on behalf of Amb. Prof. Funmilayo Adesanya-Davies, former presidential candidate and Princess of Ira, Kwara State.
It called for immediate clarification and accountability from organisers and relevant authorities.
The protest stems from Sheikh Gumi’s long-documented interactions with armed bandit networks, his public defence of their activities, and repeated statements many Nigerians consider sympathetic to violent extremists.
For communities still reeling from widespread kidnappings, mass killings, and religiously targeted attacks—particularly across the North and Middle Belt—the cleric’s visibility at such a conference has been described as “a painful and troubling signal.”
According to the statement, Gumi’s appearance reopens deep wounds for victims of terrorism, especially families whose loved ones remain in captivity.
“At a time when Christian communities continue to suffer the highest casualties from banditry and insurgency, platforming an individual widely associated with negotiating for armed groups is insensitive and morally troubling,” the group said.
‘Person of Particular Concern’
The coalition also questioned the security protocols surrounding his attendance.
It demanded answers over the following:
- whether the invitation was approved by national security agencies,
- whether the Oyo State Government was consulted, and,
- what intelligence assessment justified giving prominence to a figure with known links to criminal enclaves.
The leaders warned that legitimising controversial actors under the guise of dialogue risks normalising extremism and undermining public trust.
The statement further noted that Sheikh Gumi’s presence threatens the delicate interfaith balance in the Southwest—a region long celebrated for its religious tolerance.
Christian organisations across the zone have voiced concern that the event overlooked the potential implications for communal harmony.
In a six-point demand, the coalition called on the organisers to publicly:
- explain why Sheikh Gumi was invited,
- disclose the nature of his role at the summit,
- clarify the involvement of security agencies, and,
- issue an apology to victims of terrorism whose sensitivities were disregarded.
The group emphasised that Nigeria’s fragile stability requires platforms that promote healing and unity, not those that elevate divisive figures.
It urged the Oyo State Government, the Federal Government, and all relevant authorities to urgently address the matter.
The coalition insists: “Nigeria deserves accountability. Victims deserve justice. The people of the Southwest deserve respect.”
