Cleric Calls Supporters of Foreign Military Intervention ‘Stupid’, Warns Against U.S. Involvement in Nigeria’s Security Affairs
Abuja, Nigeria — Prominent Islamic cleric, Sheikh Ahmed Gumi, has sharply criticised Nigerians who support the recent U.S.-led airstrikes in Sokoto State, describing them as “stupid” and accusing former U.S. President Donald Trump of having “bloodstained hands.”
Gumi made the remarks while reacting to reports that the United States carried out coordinated airstrikes targeting terrorist camps in parts of Sokoto, an operation Nigerian authorities confirmed was conducted with Abuja’s approval as part of counter-terrorism cooperation.
Gumi Condemns Support for U.S. Military Action
According to the cleric, Nigerians celebrating the U.S. strikes lack an understanding of global politics and the long-term consequences of foreign military involvement.
“Anyone supporting American airstrikes in Nigeria is stupid,” Gumi said, adding that U.S. interventions across the world have resulted in the deaths of innocent women and children.
He further accused Trump of presiding over violent military campaigns in several countries, insisting that Nigeria should not trust the United States as a security partner.
Calls for End to U.S.–Nigeria Military Cooperation
Sheikh Gumi urged the Federal Government to disengage from military cooperation with the United States, warning that such partnerships could erode Nigeria’s sovereignty and expose the country to new security risks.
He argued that foreign intervention often escalates conflicts rather than resolving them, citing examples from the Middle East and parts of Africa.
Federal Government Defends Airstrikes
The Nigerian government, however, has defended the Sokoto operation, stating that the airstrikes were precision-based, intelligence-driven, and targeted ISIS-linked terror groups operating in the North-West.
Officials maintained that the strikes were carried out with Nigerian approval, stressing that no civilian casualties were recorded.
Several government officials and security analysts have also argued that international cooperation is necessary to combat the growing threat of terrorism and banditry across Nigeria.
Mixed Reactions Trail Gumi’s Comments
Gumi’s comments have sparked mixed reactions nationwide. While some Nigerians agree with his concerns about foreign intervention, others argue that rejecting international assistance could weaken Nigeria’s fight against terrorism.
The debate has once again highlighted the deep divisions over how Nigeria should balance national sovereignty, security needs, and foreign partnerships.
