A Catholic deacon and writer, Nick Donnelly, has called on President Bola Tinubu to order the arrest and prosecution of prominent Islamic cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, following his reaction to recent United States military operations in Nigeria.
### Background: U.S. Airstrikes in Sokoto
The United States reportedly carried out airstrikes on Christmas Day targeting insurgent groups in parts of Sokoto State. The operation was aimed at armed groups accused of carrying out violent attacks and killings in northern Nigeria.
### Gumi’s Reaction Sparks Controversy
Sheikh Ahmad Gumi reacted strongly to the development, reportedly urging the Nigerian government to suspend cooperation with the United States over the airstrikes. He objected to claims that the targeted groups were responsible for what he described as “genocide against Christians.”
His comments quickly generated backlash, particularly on social media, where critics accused him of sympathizing with violent extremists.
### Nick Donnelly Calls for Arrest and Prosecution
Reacting on X (formerly Twitter), Nick Donnelly condemned Gumi’s remarks, accusing the cleric of defending terrorist groups. He alleged that Gumi referred to the fighters as “our warriors” despite accusations that they were responsible for attacks on civilians.
Donnelly went further to demand legal action, stating that Sheikh Gumi should be arrested and prosecuted for what he described as crimes against humanity.
### Pressure on President Tinubu
Donnelly also challenged President Bola Tinubu to publicly distance himself from the cleric’s statements. According to him, silence from the presidency could be interpreted as tacit approval.
“President Tinubu must publicly condemn Gumi, otherwise he risks being seen as complicit in these actions,” Donnelly said.
The controversy has intensified public debate over terrorism, freedom of speech, religious influence, and the government’s responsibility in addressing alleged support for extremist violence in Nigeria.
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