Adeyanju Calls For Prosecution Of Sheikh Gumi Over Alleged Terrorism Promotion

Adeyanju Calls for Prosecution of Sheikh Gumi Over Alleged Terrorism Promotion Human rights lawyer and activist, Deji Adeyanju, has alleged that Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmad Gumi promoted terrorism through recent public comments and has called for his prosecution under Nigeria’s Terrorism Prevention and Prohibition Act, 2022. Adeyanju argued that Gumi’s statements amount to support and justification of terrorist activity and should attract criminal liability under Nigerian law. The call followed a televised interview granted by Sheikh Gumi on AIT on May 19, 2026, during which he reportedly urged Nigerians to learn how to live with armed groups. In the interview, Gumi was quoted as saying that bandits were under pressure from military operations and relied on ransom payments to sustain their activities. Adeyanju described the comments as dangerous, arguing that they could be interpreted as sympathy for or justification of violent criminal groups. Adeyanju maintained that the Terrorism Prevention and Prohibition Act criminalises not only acts of terrorism but also support, encouragement, and ideological justification of terrorist organisations.

He referenced provisions of the law that, according to him, cover:

• Direct or indirect support for terrorist groups
• Public justification of violent acts
• Encouragement or ideological backing of terrorism
• Association with or sympathy toward terrorist networks

He further argued that such provisions carry penalties of up to 20 years imprisonment under Section 13 of the Act. The activist also urged authorities to apply anti-terrorism laws consistently, stating that Nigeria’s security challenges require equal enforcement regardless of status, religion, or background. He stressed that public figures whose statements appear to justify or rationalise violence should face investigation and possible prosecution where necessary. Gumi has in the past been involved in public discussions around negotiations and dialogue with armed groups as part of efforts to reduce violence in parts of northern Nigeria. His approach has often attracted controversy, with critics arguing that it risks legitimising criminal actors, while supporters say it reflects a pragmatic approach to conflict resolution.Adeyanju’s call for prosecution adds to ongoing national debate over how far freedom of speech extends in discussions about insecurity, and whether public commentary on armed groups could amount to legal support for terrorism under Nigerian law.