Prominent Islamic scholar, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, has raised concerns over the rising cases of terror attacks on worshippers in Nigeria, saying foreign involvement cannot be ruled out.
Gumi made this statement in a post on social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, where he reacted to an allegation made by a Kaduna-based activist, Mahdi Shehu. The activist accused a former American envoy, Russell Hanks, of being involved in a bombing incident in Kaduna during the military regime of late General Sani Abacha.
According to Sheikh Gumi, Nigeria remains a country of interest to some Western powers, who may be carrying out secret operations to weaken the country and justify external intervention.
“Terror attacks on worshippers: don’t rule out foreign involvement,” Gumi wrote.
He recalled the 1995 bombing of a bookshop at Durbar Hotel in Kaduna, an incident that happened during a tense political period in Nigeria. Gumi said Mahdi Shehu had accused Russell Hanks, a former United States envoy, of masterminding the attack.
Gumi noted that the former envoy has not publicly addressed the allegation till today.
“He declined to comment on the matter to this date. Just another possibility,” the cleric said.
The Islamic scholar suggested that Nigeria’s strategic importance, population size, and natural resources make it a country of interest to foreign powers. According to him, this interest could explain why Nigeria may be targeted for secret activities aimed at creating instability.
“Nigeria being a country of concern by them, puts it on their radar for clandestine operations to prove the need for intervention,” he added.
Gumi also alleged that the ultimate aim of such actions is to weaken Nigeria’s sovereignty and gain access to its wealth and resources. He claimed that similar patterns have been seen in other countries, pointing to Venezuela as a current example of a nation under foreign pressure.
“The aim is our sovereignty and wealth. Now their attention is focused on Venezuela,” he wrote.
Sheikh Gumi further alleged that foreign embassies could sometimes be used as cover to avoid scrutiny while carrying out secret operations.
“This is how they can use their embassies to evade censor,” he said.
The comments by Sheikh Gumi have sparked fresh debate on the causes of insecurity in Nigeria, especially attacks on religious gatherings. In recent years, Nigeria has witnessed several attacks on worship centres, including mosques and churches, leading to loss of lives and heightened fear among citizens.
These attacks have often been linked to insurgent groups, bandits, and extremist elements operating within the country. However, Gumi’s comments suggest that internal actors may not be the only ones responsible.
Nigeria has battled insecurity for more than a decade, particularly in the North-East, where Boko Haram and its splinter groups have carried out deadly attacks. In the North-West and parts of the North-Central, banditry and kidnappings have become common, affecting villages, highways, and religious centres.
Despite ongoing military operations and security efforts, attacks on civilians continue to raise questions about intelligence gaps, funding of terror groups, and the possible involvement of external forces.
The allegation about the 1995 bombing brings back memories of Nigeria’s military era under General Sani Abacha. That period was marked by political repression, international isolation, and widespread allegations of human rights abuses.
The bombing at Durbar Hotel in Kaduna, which reportedly targeted a bookshop, was one of several violent incidents that occurred during that time. While the incident has remained controversial, it has not led to any public prosecution of foreign officials.
Mahdi Shehu, the activist referenced by Gumi, is known for making strong claims on political and security issues in Nigeria. His allegation against the former American envoy has resurfaced discussions on whether foreign interests have in the past interfered in Nigeria’s internal affairs.
Sheikh Gumi is a well-known and sometimes controversial public figure. He has been vocal on issues of insecurity, governance, and dialogue with armed groups. His views have often generated mixed reactions, with supporters praising his boldness and critics questioning his positions.
In the past, Gumi has advocated dialogue with armed groups in the North-West, arguing that some bandits are driven by poverty and injustice. This stance has attracted criticism from those who believe criminals should be confronted strictly through law enforcement.
His latest comments are likely to deepen public debate, especially at a time when Nigerians are demanding stronger action to protect lives and places of worship.
While there is no official confirmation of foreign involvement in recent attacks, analysts say it is important for security agencies to investigate all possible angles, including external links, funding sources, and international networks.
The Federal Government has consistently maintained that it is working with international partners to combat terrorism while protecting Nigeria’s sovereignty. Officials have also warned against unverified claims that could raise public tension.
As attacks on worshippers continue to generate fear and anger, many Nigerians are calling for improved security, better intelligence gathering, and accountability for those responsible.
Sheikh Gumi’s remarks have added another layer to the conversation, highlighting the need for deeper examination of the forces behind Nigeria’s security challenges.