Ahmad Abubakar Gumi, a prominent Islamic scholar, has raised concerns over the recent U.S. military strikes in Nigeria, cautioning that foreign intervention could destabilize the country. The strikes, carried out on Christmas Day, targeted terrorist groups in northwest Nigeria, particularly in Sokoto State, which the U.S. government said were linked to killings of Christians.
Gumi criticized the involvement of the U.S., arguing that Nigeria’s cooperation with foreign forces could turn the country into a conflict zone. He called on the Nigerian government to suspend all military partnerships with the U.S. and suggested alternative partners such as China, Turkey, and Pakistan. The scholar also warned that the U.S. presence could increase religious tensions and undermine national sovereignty.
He added that airstrikes alone are not enough to defeat terrorism, emphasizing the need for ground-level military efforts by Nigeria. Gumi questioned the timing and location of the attacks, noting that strikes on Sokoto—a largely Muslim area with no immediate threat—seemed misdirected. He urged communities affected by terrorism to document and report any civilian casualties to ensure accountability.
Gumi’s statements come amid broader debate over Nigeria’s security strategy and foreign military involvement, which he claims could have long-term political and social consequences, especially ahead of the 2027 elections.