PUBLICATION: Sheikh Gumi Urges FG to Seek Military Help from Pakistan, Turkey Instead of the U.S.

📣 PUBLICATION: Sheikh Gumi Urges FG to Seek Military Help from Pakistan, Turkey Instead of the U.S.

Abuja, Nigeria — Controversial Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmad Abubakar Mahmud Gumi has called on the Federal Government of Nigeria to review its security partnerships, urging Abuja to end military cooperation with the United States and instead seek assistance from what he describes as more neutral countries like Pakistan, Turkey, and China. (Nigeria News Today)

Gumi’s remarks come in the wake of reported U.S. airstrikes on terrorist targets in Nigeria, which he strongly criticised on his official Facebook page. While acknowledging that combating terrorism is religiously justified and necessary, the cleric argued that such operations should be carried out by actors with perceived moral legitimacy rather than foreign powers with controversial military histories. (Nigeria News Today)

According to Gumi, allowing the U.S. to play a prominent role in Nigeria’s counter-terrorism efforts risks turning the country into a “theatre of war” and could attract anti-American forces, thereby worsening insecurity rather than resolving it. He asserted that the U.S. involvement — particularly under narratives framed around religious protection — could deepen religious and national divisions and threaten Nigeria’s sovereignty. (Businessday NG)

The cleric specifically suggested that if external military support is necessary, Nigeria should look towards countries he perceives as more neutral and effective partners, such as Pakistan, Turkey, and China, claiming they could provide assistance without geopolitical baggage. (Okay News)

Gumi also criticised the reliance on aerial bombardments, arguing that airstrikes alone are insufficient to defeat violent extremist groups. He emphasised the need for sustained and robust ground operations, asserting that Nigeria has the capacity to mobilise its forces effectively. (PM News Nigeria)

The cleric’s comments have intensified debate about Nigeria’s security strategy, particularly following high-profile U.S. military actions in the country’s northwest. His stance reflects broader concerns among some Nigerians about foreign military involvement and the potential implications for national unity, sovereignty, and long-term stability. (Nigeria News Today)