Prominent Islamic cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Abubakar Mahmoud Gumi, has denied allegations linking him to statements supporting banditry in Nigeria, describing such claims as false and manipulated.

In a statement shared on his verified Facebook page on Saturday, Gumi said some of his media interviews on insecurity and banditry were being deliberately misrepresented by individuals and groups pursuing sectional interests.

He alleged that some online content creators and groups were using sensational headlines to mislead the public and drive engagement.

According to him, he has never supported or justified banditry in any form.

“I hereby state unequivocally that any video clip, written statement, or message attributed to me, whether directly or by innuendo, suggesting support for, justification of, protection of, or advocacy for banditry in Nigeria or anywhere else does not emanate from me,” Gumi said.

The cleric described himself as a loyal citizen committed to Nigeria’s progress and urged the public and authorities to ignore materials circulating against him.

“I, therefore, urge the general public, the media, and the Nigerian state to disregard such fake, manipulated, and doctored materials currently in circulation,” he stated.

Gumi also warned that individuals or groups who continue to circulate what he described as false claims against him risk legal action.

He further expressed hope for lasting peace in Nigeria and sympathised with victims affected by insecurity across the country.

“I sincerely hope that our great nation will heal, and that all victims affected by this violence will find comfort in the collective determination of the nation and the international community to achieve a lasting solution to the insecurity fueled over time by ignorance, poverty, and widespread social injustice,” he added.