Controversial Islamic cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, has alleged that some Christian groups in Nigeria’s Middle Belt are “burying empty coffins” to fabricate mass killings and promote a false narrative of genocide.
Gumi made the claim while responding to criticisms during his ongoing visit to Turkey, dismissing rumours that he left Nigeria to evade possible U.S. military action following former U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent comments about a “Christian genocide” in Nigeria.
According to Gumi, a medical professional had informed him that certain groups were allegedly staging fake massacres by recording and publicizing scenes of supposed victims to attract international sympathy. He described the alleged actions as “desperation at its peak” and a “manipulation aimed at fueling hatred and division.”
He further claimed that the genocide allegations were being used to attack Islam and discredit Sharia law, saying, “This so-called Christian genocide is part of a well-orchestrated effort to malign Islam and fuel Islamophobia.”
Gumi reiterated that his trip to Turkey had been planned long before Trump’s statement, stressing that he has no reason to flee Nigeria.
The cleric also urged President Bola Tinubu to respond firmly to Trump’s remarks, which he described as “a direct affront to Nigeria’s sovereignty.” He advised the federal government to summon the U.S. ambassador to demand a retraction and consider diplomatic consequences if necessary.
Gumi further called on Nigeria to diversify its international alliances and strengthen ties with other global partners.
