By Chief Malcolm Emokiniovo Omirhobo,
It is deeply alarming that Sheikh Ahmad Gumi of Kaduna continues to publicly justify and defend terrorists criminals who are maiming, killing, kidnapping, raping, and displacing innocent Nigerians while describing them as “listening and reasonable human beings” who should be pacified and not eliminated by force.
His consistent public utterances, visitations to terrorist camps, and advocacy on their behalf raise serious concerns regarding national security, complicity, and promotion of terrorism.
Under Nigerian law, no citizen cleric or otherwise is above the law:
1. Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (1999, as amended):
Section 14(2)(b): Security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government.
Section 39: Freedom of speech does not protect speech that promotes crime, violence, or threatens national security.
Section 45(1): Fundamental rights may be restricted in the interest of defence, public safety, public order, and morality.
2. Terrorism (Prevention & Prohibition) Act, 2022:
Section 3: Direct or indirect support for terrorist groups or their ideologies is a criminal offence.
Section 5: Justifying, supporting, or representing the views of terrorists constitutes an offence.
Section 12 & 13: Harbouring, aiding, or communicating with terrorists without lawful authority is punishable by imprisonment.
Section 49: Security agencies (DSS, Police, Military Intelligence) are empowered to investigate, arrest, and prosecute persons inciting, aiding, or glorifying terrorist activities.
3. Criminal Code Act (Sections 37-38 & 46):
Promoting acts of war against the Nigerian State or encouraging armed groups is treasonable and punishable by life imprisonment or death.
4. African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights (Ratification Act, Cap A9 LFN 2004):
The government has a duty to protect the right to life (Article 4), liberty (Article 6), and security of its citizens.
In the interest of justice and national security, we call upon:
The Department of State Services (DSS)
The Nigerian Police Force (NPF)
The Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA)
The Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF)
The National Assembly (Committees on Defence, Human Rights, and Judiciary)
to immediately investigate, arrest if necessary, and prosecute Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, in accordance with the law.
Silence in the face of bloodshed is complicity.
Defending terrorists is not peace-building it is aiding evil and undermining the Constitution of Nigeria.
@Omorhibo is a Human rights Lawyer and Public Interest Advocate
