I’ve Noticed Sheikh Gumi Keeps Comparing IPOB With Bandits While Calling Them Our Brothers” Ideho

During a recent edition of Journalist Hangout on TVC, a guest, Charles Ideho, strongly criticized Sheikh Ahmad Gumi over what he described as the cleric’s consistent public remarks that seem to excuse or justify banditry. Ideho took particular issue with Gumi’s tendency to draw comparisons between separatist activities in the Southeast and criminal gangs operating in the forests of northern Nigeria.

Ideho noted that Sheikh Gumi frequently likens IPOB to northern bandits, recalling statements in which the cleric referred to those hiding in the forests as “our brothers.” He expressed shock at Gumi’s further assertion that such individuals are still important to the country, quoting him as saying that Nigeria “needs them” and that they are vital to its continued existence. To Ideho, these comments suggested an alarming level of sympathy toward people engaged in violent and criminal acts.

The discussion also referenced a recent warning issued in Maiduguri by the Minister of Defence, retired General Christopher Musa, who remarked that “a friend of a thief is a thief.” Panelists interpreted the statement as a clear warning to anyone who openly or indirectly supports terrorists and bandits. Ideho agreed with this view, suggesting that the minister’s words could signal that security agencies are beginning to scrutinize Gumi more closely because of his long-standing public advocacy on behalf of bandits.

Throughout the debate, panelists raised serious questions about Gumi’s motives and level of knowledge. They repeatedly asked what the cleric might know that the general public does not, and why he appears so deeply invested in the welfare and protection of criminals. Another contributor pointed out that even prominent northern leaders have rejected the idea that banditry offers any benefit to the region or the country.

In closing, Charles Ideho and others on the panel firmly condemned any public expressions of sympathy for violent groups, describing them as a serious threat to national security. One panelist praised the defence minister’s remarks for bringing “a sense of sanity” back to the conversation. They also recalled that Sheikh Gumi has previously faced international backlash, including sanctions from Saudi authorities, who once cut short his travel plans due to controversial and inflammatory statements he had made.

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