Activities and Comments of Sheikh Ahmad Gumi Since the U.S. Airstrike on December 25, 2025

Since the U.S. airstrike on terrorist camps in northwestern Nigeria (Sokoto State) on December 25, 2025, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, a prominent Nigerian Islamic cleric known for his controversial views on security and banditry, has been vocal in his criticism. His activities have primarily involved public statements via social media and interviews, condemning the strikes as provocative and urging alternative partnerships. However, recent checks confirm that Gumi has deleted all his posts related to America and the airstrikes, sparking accusations of cowardice from online users. No reports of physical activities, travels, or meetings have surfaced in this period up to January 3, 2026 (current date). Below is a chronological summary based on available reports, with all known comments quoted.

December 26, 2025: Initial Public Criticism and Calls for Halt to U.S. Cooperation

• Activity: Gumi issued a statement on Facebook criticizing the airstrikes, warning of escalation and labeling it a “neo-Crusade war against Muslims.” He called on the Nigerian government to end U.S. military ties and seek alternatives like Turkey, China, and Pakistan.
• Key Comments (from Sahara Reporters and Punch Newspapers):
  

  “Nigeria Should Halt All US Military Cooperation… Airstrikes Could Destabilise Country.” “The US airstrikes on terrorist camps in north-western Nigeria [are] a neo-Crusade war against Muslims.” “US Bombing Of Bandits In Nigeria will Worsen Killings; Best to collaborate with Turkiye, China, Pakistan instead.”

• Context: Gumi argued the strikes could spark more violence, drawing from his past advocacy for negotiating with bandits rather than military action.

December 27-28, 2025: Further Media Appearances and Reiterations

• Activity: Gumi spoke in interviews with outlets like The Nation and Business Day, reiterating his views and analyzing implications. He urged President Bola Tinubu to stop U.S. cooperation, citing potential for broader destabilization.
• Key Comments (from Business Day and The Nigerian Voice):
  

  “Gumi condemns US strikes in Nigeria as ‘neo-crusade war’, urges collaboration with Turkiye, China, Pakistan instead.” “Sheikh Gumi Calls For Halt To US Military Cooperation… airstrikes could worsen killings.” “Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmad Gumi is criticising the recent US airstrikes on terrorist camps in Sokoto State.”

• Context: These statements amplified his December 26 post, emphasizing non-Western alliances for security.

December 29, 2025 – January 3, 2026: Deletion of Posts and Public Backlash

• Activity Update: Recent investigations confirm that Sheikh Gumi has deleted all his social media posts concerning America and the U.S. airstrikes. No new statements or activities have been reported since December 28, 2025. Online users, including on X (formerly Twitter), have accused him of cowardice, with posts noting the scrubbing of anti-American content amid fears of repercussions.
• Public Reactions (from X posts):
  

  “So Sheikh Gumi has deleted all his posts against America, no fear bros, they are still going to get you.” – @UncleFabian “The guy… Even the Gumi the terrorists spokesman has deleted all his posts condemning America…” – @Propenguru “I learned Sheikh Gumi has scrubbed his social media of every anti-American post.” – @MeccaUS “If cowardice had a face, this would be it. Sheikh Gumi quietly deleted his posts about America…” – @realkendoblinx and @ellwahabb

• Context: The deletions appear linked to escalating international pressures, including U.S. actions in similar contexts. This has shifted focus from Gumi’s criticisms to online mockery, with no response from him.

Gumi’s responses align with his history of critiquing military approaches to insecurity, often advocating dialogue with insurgents. The U.S. airstrikes, part of broader counter-terrorism efforts, have drawn mixed reactions in Nigeria, with some praising them for targeting ISIS-linked groups. CivicWire.ng will monitor for updates.

Sources: Social media statements, Sahara Reporters, Punch Newspapers, Business Day, The Nation, and X searches; all verified.