Controversy trails Sheikh Ahmad Gumi’s appearance at Ibadan Conference
Christian and Civil Society Groups Demand Transparency, Security Clarification
A major inter-religious conference held in Ibadan, Oyo State, has sparked widespread controversy following the appearance of Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, a figure frequently associated in public discourse with outreach to armed bandit groups in northern Nigeria.
The conference, convened under the banner of the Congregation of Southern Nigerian Ulamah, drew sharp reactions from Christian organisations, civil society groups, and traditional leaders across the South and Middle Belt. Their concerns were formally expressed in a statement issued on behalf of Amb. Prof. Funmilayo Adesanya-Davies, former presidential candidate and Princess of Ira, Kwara State, and signed by Nuhu Agum, Senior Special Adviser, PMCO.
At the centre of the controversy is a central question raised by multiple stakeholders:
“Why Sheikh Gumi at the Ibadan conference?”
Critics argue that the cleric’s presence at such a high-profile public event is “insensitive” and appears to disregard the trauma of victims of terrorism and banditry across northern and central Nigeria.
Concerns Raised by Christian and Civil Society Groups
1. A Painful Signal to Victims of Insecurity
The statement notes that many Nigerians perceive Sheikh Gumi’s attendance as reopening wounds for families affected by mass killings, church attacks, and ongoing kidnappings.
They argue that the cleric’s past engagements with armed groups—even while publicly framed as mediatory—make his participation at a sensitive public forum troubling to many communities still grieving or searching for abducted relatives.
2. Questions Over Security Clearance
The groups demand clarification on whether the invitation extended to Gumi received the approval of national or state security agencies.
They raise questions including:
- Whether Oyo State authorities were consulted,
- What security assessments were conducted, and
- Whether the risks associated with the cleric’s public profile were considered.
The statement warns that failure to provide answers could create the impression that state institutions are “normalising” extremist actors.
3. Potential Impact on Southwest Interfaith Harmony
The Southwest, known for religious tolerance, may face heightened tensions as a result of the decision, the communiqué warns.
Christian organisations argue that presenting such a controversial figure in a region where interfaith relationships are delicately balanced could undermine long-standing communal harmony.
4. Public Trust at Stake
With Nigeria facing persistent:
- kidnappings,
- rural attacks,
- assaults on churches, and
- widespread insecurity,
stakeholders say that giving visibility to polarising figures—without explanation or context—further erodes confidence in governance and raises concerns about possible hidden agendas.
Demands Issued to Organisers
The groups call on the conference organisers to:
- Clearly explain the rationale behind Gumi’s invitation.
- Disclose the purpose of his participation.
- Clarify the involvement of security agencies.
- Assure the public that no extremist messaging or endorsement was intended.
- Apologise to victims of terrorism whose sensitivities may have been overlooked.
A Call for National Responsibility
The statement emphasises that Nigeria is at a fragile moment and insists that public platforms must prioritise unity, justice, and healing.
Christian and civil society leaders reiterate their commitment to peace but stress that true national reconciliation cannot involve elevating individuals perceived—rightly or wrongly—as sympathetic to violent actors.
Conclusion
The group calls on the Oyo State Government, the Federal Government, and all relevant security agencies to urgently provide clarification on the matter.
“Nigeria deserves accountability. Victims deserve justice. The people of the Southwest deserve respect,” the statement concludes.
