Kaduna-based Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmad Abubakar Gumi alleged on January 4, 2026, that he has been targeted for assassination by elements linked to Boko Haram, citing a threatening phone call from an unknown individual claiming he was "marked for elimination."
Gumi recounted receiving the call amid ongoing Nigerian military operations against bandits and insurgents, where the caller accused him of meddling by advocating dialogue over force. He tied the threat to his repeated calls for amnesty toward repentant bandits, a stance that has drawn ire from security hawks and hardliners within terror circles. The cleric, known for negotiating with armed groups in forests, vowed no retreat despite past death threats and filed suits over defamation.
Gumi's activism traces to 2021 Zamfara negotiations and critiques of U.S. anti-terror policies, including unverified 2025 claims of American plots against Nigerian leaders. Critics label him a bandit sympathizer, while supporters praise his peace efforts amid Boko Haram's enduring northern rampage.
Reactions polarized online, with northerners rallying behind Gumi and others dismissing it as drama.
- "Gumi too dey form victim; bandits na him brothers" – Skeptics on Nairaland forums.nairaland
- "Foreign agents behind this to silence him! Pray for Sheikh" – Defenders alleging external plots.realnewshub
- "If Boko Haram wan kill am, dem for don do am since" – Doubters questioning credibility. The claim trended, reigniting debates on cleric-security ties.gistmania