Security analyst Charles Ideho has criticized Sheikh Ahmad Gumi’s perceived sense of invincibility, describing the controversial cleric’s public posture as defiant and challenging to Nigerian authorities.
During a discussion on TVC’s Journalist Hangout, Ideho painted a picture of a man who appears to be daring the Nigerian state to take action against him. “When you look at his very toxic statement and all that, it’s as if come catch me if you can, that kind of posture,” Ideho observed, describing Gumi’s continued controversial statements despite growing public outcry.
The comments came in response to the Minister of Defense’s recent warning that those providing overt or covert support to terrorists and bandits should cease their activities immediately. General Christopher Musa had stated during a visit to Borno State that “a friend of a thief is a thief,” in what many interpreted as a direct message to Sheikh Gumi.
Ideho emphasized that Gumi’s behavior suggests he believes he is untouchable, continuing to make inflammatory statements as if challenging security agencies to act. “I’m going to respond. Come catch me if you can, but I will say what I’m saying,” Ideho characterized Gumi’s apparent attitude.
However, the analyst stressed that this perception of invincibility should be challenged by concrete action from authorities. “I love what you said that this is just not about words, we should walk it, he should walk the talk,” Ideho stated, calling on the Minister of Defense to back up his warning with tangible steps.
Ideho questioned whether Nigeria would face any serious consequences if Gumi were arrested and questioned. “If Gumi is arrested and questioned for him to give us what, give the country what he knows, who is it that the country is going to burn down or something?” he asked rhetorically, challenging the notion that the cleric is too influential to be held accountable.
The analyst further questioned whether Gumi is “bigger than Nigeria, the Nigerian state, even bigger than the Sultan of Sokoto,” emphasizing that no individual should be above the law regardless of their religious or social standing.
Co-panelist Kayode Ladeinde agreed, stating that “no single individual group can be more powerful than the government” which holds “the collective mandate of over 200 million people.” Both analysts called for immediate action to demonstrate that the power of the state supersedes any individual’s influence.
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