By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
The Middle Belt Forum (MBF) of Nigeria has strongly criticized Sheik Ahmed Gumi, a Kaduna-based Islamic cleric, for his recent inflammatory comments, which it views as not only disrespectful to the sensibilities of Nigerians but also indicative of an arrogant attitude that is often associated with Gumi’s Fulani background. The forum alleges that individuals of Fulani descent have leveraged their influence to exert control and dominance over Nigeria and its resources.
In a statement signed by its National President, Dr. Pogu Bitrus, the Middle Belt Forum responded to a trending video clip featuring Sheik Ahmed Gumi, wherein he called for the removal of Barrister Nyesom Wike from his position as the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister based on his religious affiliation and place of origin.
The forum expressed its concerns, stating, “We would have chosen to ignore Gumi’s outburst, but the implications from the video clips are deeply troubling. Other clerics, speaking in the Hausa language, echoed similar sentiments.” The forum proceeded to detail the key points raised in these clips:
1. The assertion that a Christian “infidel” should not hold the position of FCT Minister.
2. The belief that the FCT is the exclusive domain of the Muslim North.
3. The argument that non-Muslims should not be entrusted with leadership roles in security agencies.
The Middle Belt Forum emphasized that the FCT is an integral part of the Middle Belt and is home to a diverse population of Christians, Muslims, and followers of traditional religions who coexist peacefully. They noted that the Gbagyi people originally inhabited the FCT, and it was their ancestral land that was repurposed to create the Federal Capital Territory, a fact that Gumi and his associates seem to disregard.
The forum categorically refuted Gumi’s claims, arguing that Fulani people were not the indigenous inhabitants of the FCT at any point in history. They pointed out that historical records confirm this fact, and the ethnic composition of the FCT does not include the Fulani as its indigenous population. The forum urged Gumi to respect historical accuracy and refrain from distorting the truth.
The Middle Belt Forum unequivocally condemned the messages contained in the video clips that called for the removal of Barrister Nyesom Wike from his position based on his faith and background. They considered such calls unfortunate and reflective of an agenda to establish a state religion in Nigeria. They called upon President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to investigate these inflammatory remarks and address the actions of individuals like Sheik Gumi.
Regarding the leadership of security organizations, the forum reminded the public that they had witnessed the consequences of having these agencies predominantly led by individuals with affiliations similar to those promoted by Gumi. They urged caution against statements suggesting that only Muslims can be fair to all groups in the country.
The Middle Belt Forum expressed concern that Gumi and others were attempting to ignite religious tensions in an already volatile nation. They called upon President Tinubu to act swiftly and prevent elements that seek to incite ethnic and religious conflict.
The forum also highlighted the need for a credible electronic census to accurately determine the demographic composition of the nation. They believed that such a census would dispel ethnic and religious divisions, ultimately leading to a more united Nigeria.
In a time when the government is addressing security challenges, the Middle Belt Forum emphasized the importance of avoiding religiously divisive rhetoric, such as that employed by preachers like Gumi, as it has the potential to spark religious conflict. They asserted that every Nigerian, regardless of their religious or ethnic background, should have the right to hold public office. Barrister Nyesom Wike, they argued, is qualified for his role as FCT Minister and represents all Nigerians. They called for an end to religious bigotry and reaffirmed the unity of Nigeria.
