Foreign powers backing terrorists in Nigeria – Sheikh Gumi

Renowned Islamic scholar, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, has accused foreign powers of backing terrorists in Nigeria. 

Sheikh Gumi made this allegation during an interview with the BBC Hausa Service.

He claimed that recent patterns of attacks across the country suggest external support for armed groups operating in Nigeria. The Islamic cleric added that the situation on the ground contradicts earlier signs of improvement in national security.

He pointed to the Abuja–Kaduna highway, once regarded as a deadly corridor for commuters, noting that the route had become far safer in recent months before the renewed surge in violence. 

According to him, farmers in Birnin Gwari, Kaduna State, who had long abandoned their farmlands due to persistent threats, had gradually resumed farming activities, an indication that the security environment had shown signs of stability before the latest spike in attacks. 

Gumi insisted that the sudden reversal in progress raises questions that cannot be ignored.

He urged the Nigerian government to intensify intelligence operations, strengthen diplomatic engagements, and scrutinise all external links that may be fuelling insecurity.