Controversial Islamic cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, has criticized former U.S. President Donald Trump over his claim of a “Christian massacre” in Nigeria, saying the remark exposed unpatriotic citizens who wish the nation harm.
Trump had recently listed Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern,” alleging persecution of Christians and threatening military action if the federal government failed to stop the supposed genocide.
Reacting on Facebook, Gumi described Trump’s statement as false and divisive, urging him to withdraw it. He argued that insecurity in Nigeria is not faith-based and accused some Nigerians of using the claim to sow hatred.
The cleric added that even if the U.S. military intervened, it would fail to defeat terrorists, citing America’s failure in Afghanistan. Gumi, who has repeatedly advocated dialogue with bandits, maintained that many of them are simply “angry people” needing understanding, not warfare.
