Islamic scholar, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, has dismissed allegations that certain individuals are sponsoring terrorism in Nigeria, asserting that such claims are baseless.
Gumi emphasized that the bandits operating in the country do not require external financial support, as they generate substantial funds through kidnapping activities, collecting billions in ransom payments.
His remarks follow the recent release of 15 entities, including individuals and Bureau De Change operators, accused by the Nigerian government of involvement in terrorism financing.
Speaking during an appearance on Daily Trust X Space, Gumi insisted that only a court of law has the authority to determine whether someone is a terrorism financier.
He urged the government to address the root causes of banditry and kidnapping, emphasizing the need for collective action to tackle the issue.
Gumi highlighted the prevalent trend of ransom demands by kidnappers, stressing that framing political opponents as terrorism financiers is unfounded.
He emphasized that Nigerians are not involved in financing terrorism and suggested that kidnapping for ransom is the primary source of funding for the perpetrators.
Gumi’s comments underscore ongoing debates surrounding terrorism financing and the complexities of addressing insecurity in Nigeria.