“I Was Marked for Elimination”: Dr. Sheikh Gumi Speaks on US-Nigeria Airstrike
Controversial Islamic cleric Dr. Sheikh Gumi has made explosive claims that have shaken Nigeria’s security conversation, alleging a Sheikh Gumi US Nigeria airstrike allegation following a recent military operation in Northern Nigeria. Speaking in a widely circulated video after reported aerial attacks in the region, the Kaduna based cleric claimed that he was personally targeted during a United States led airstrike in Sokoto State.
According to Gumi, intelligence used for the operation wrongly or deliberately identified him as a high value target linked to insurgent leadership, an accusation he strongly denies while warning that his life may still be at risk.
Gumi gave a detailed account of the incident, insisting that the airstrikes were not solely aimed at criminal camps but were intended to silence him. He argued that his long standing involvement in mediating between government authorities and armed groups in forested areas has angered powerful interests who favor a strictly military approach to insecurity.
The cleric claimed that the Sokoto airstrike was a calculated attempt to eliminate him under the cover of anti insurgency operations, which he described as a serious violation of his rights as a citizen and religious figure.
The reported involvement of foreign military assets has added an international dimension to the controversy. Gumi questioned the origin and credibility of the intelligence that led to the strike, suggesting that inaccurate or misleading information may have been supplied by local actors to foreign partners.
He maintained that his repeated visits to conflict zones were strictly for preaching and peace building, aimed at encouraging dialogue and reducing violence rather than supporting criminal or extremist activities. This position contradicts the views of several security agencies that have consistently expressed concern over his proximity to armed groups.
With no detailed official response yet addressing the specific allegations, public opinion remains sharply divided. Supporters view Sheikh Gumi as a misunderstood peace mediator being unfairly targeted for advocating dialogue, while critics argue that his statements and engagements have at times appeared sympathetic to violent actors.
Regardless of where opinions fall, the claim that a prominent religious leader may have been targeted in a foreign led military operation on Nigerian soil has intensified debate over national sovereignty, intelligence accuracy, and the broader strategy guiding counter insurgency efforts in the region.
As questions continue to mount, the unfolding Sheikh Gumi US Nigeria airstrike allegation has become a focal point in discussions about security, accountability, and the human cost of modern warfare in Nigeria’s ongoing fight against insurgency.