Renowned Islamic scholar, Sheikh Dr. Ahmad Abubakar Gumi, has filed a criminal complaint before a Chief Magistrate Court in Kaduna State against two Facebook users over alleged death threats and defamatory posts made against him on social media.
The case, with suit number KMD/685/25, was filed on December 24, 2025. Sheikh Gumi accused the two defendants, identified as George Udom and Bello Isiaka, of publishing false and harmful information that he said has put his life at risk and damaged his reputation.
According to court documents, the complaint followed a series of Facebook posts made on December 23, 2025. In the posts, the defendants allegedly claimed that Sheikh Gumi issued threats against the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa, over ongoing military operations against bandits in parts of the country.
The posts reportedly suggested that the Defence Minister’s family in Zangon Kataf area of Southern Kaduna would be attacked if military operations against bandits were not stopped. Sheikh Gumi strongly denied making such statements.
Through his lawyer, Suleiman Danlami Lere, Esq., the Islamic scholar described the publication as false, malicious, and dangerous. He told the court that the posts were designed to portray him as someone who supports violence and terrorism, which he said is far from his beliefs and teachings.
Sheikh Gumi also told the court that the defendants used his name and photograph in the Facebook posts to make the claims appear genuine. According to him, this action exposed him to possible attacks, arrest, or retaliation from security agencies and members of the public who might believe the false information.
He argued that the posts not only harmed his personal image but also threatened his safety, especially in a country where security issues are sensitive and often taken seriously by authorities.
The complaint cited relevant sections of the Penal Code Law of Kaduna State, 2017. Under these laws, making statements that can incite violence, cause fear, or damage a person’s reputation can lead to criminal prosecution if proven in court.
Sheikh Gumi stressed that he has always been known as a cleric who supports peaceful dialogue and engagement as solutions to Nigeria’s security challenges. He described the Facebook publications as “wicked” and capable of inciting hatred and violence against him.
The scholar is a well-known figure in Nigeria, especially in the North. Over the years, Sheikh Gumi has been vocal on national issues, particularly insecurity, banditry, and the need for dialogue between the government and armed groups. His views have often generated public debate and sometimes controversy.
In the past, Sheikh Gumi has openly criticised the use of force alone in dealing with banditry and insurgency, arguing that dialogue and addressing root causes such as poverty and injustice are important. While some Nigerians support his views, others strongly oppose them, accusing him of being too soft on criminals.
Because of his outspoken nature, Sheikh Gumi has remained a regular subject of discussion on social media. Supporters often praise him for speaking his mind, while critics accuse him of making statements, they believe undermine national security efforts.
This background has made the latest allegations more sensitive. According to the court filing, Sheikh Gumi believes the Facebook posts were meant to exploit public tension and paint him as an enemy of the state.
He told the court that the false claim linking him to threats against a top military official could have serious consequences, including attacks on his person or actions against him by security agencies acting on wrong information.
The case also highlights growing concerns about the misuse of social media in Nigeria. In recent years, false information, hate speech, and defamatory posts have become common on platforms such as Facebook, X, and WhatsApp. Many individuals and public figures have complained about reputational damage caused by unverified online content.
In Kaduna State, where religious and ethnic tensions have occurred in the past, authorities often warn against statements that could inflame violence. Security agencies have repeatedly advised residents to verify information before sharing it online.
As of the time of filing the complaint, it was not clear whether the court had issued summons to the defendants. The matter is expected to come up for hearing in the coming weeks, where the court will decide whether there is enough evidence to proceed with criminal charges.
The defendants, George Udom and Bello Isiaka, had not publicly responded to the allegations at the time of this report. It also remains unclear whether they acted independently or were linked to any organisation.
For Sheikh Gumi, the legal action appears to be aimed at clearing his name and protecting his safety. He maintains that he has never threatened any individual or encouraged violence against anyone.
The case comes at a time when Nigeria continues to battle serious security challenges, including banditry, kidnapping, and insurgency. Statements linked to these issues are often treated with urgency by both the public and the government.