Prominent Islamic cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, has called on President Bola Tinubu to take decisive diplomatic action following U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent threat of possible military intervention in Nigeria.
Gumi, in a statement on Sunday, described Trump’s remarks as a “profound disrespect” to Nigeria’s sovereignty and urged the Federal Government to summon the U.S. ambassador for an official retraction.
Gumi says Nigeria must defend its sovereignty
According to Gumi, Trump’s threat represents a direct affront to Nigeria’s authority and must not be ignored. He stated that while the country should act with restraint, it cannot appear weak in the face of such provocation. “For Trump to threaten a sovereign country with military attack is a profound disrespect to our authority, but we can rise above it. President Tinubu should summon the U.S. ambassador; they either retract their threats or we sever diplomatic ties with this irresponsible regime,” Gumi declared.
The cleric emphasized that Nigeria had other viable options for international cooperation, both economically and militarily. He suggested that the government explore alternative alliances that respect Nigeria’s independence and mutual interests.
Trump’s threat sparks diplomatic tension
Recall that President Trump had on Friday designated Nigeria as a country of particular concern (CPC), citing alleged violence against Christians and the government’s supposed failure to protect religious minorities. The American president warned that the U.S. “will not stand by” if what he described as a “genocide against Christians” continues, threatening possible military action should the situation persist.
However, the Nigerian government has firmly denied any persecution of religious groups in the country. Gumi’s reaction adds to growing criticism from Nigerian leaders, who have described Trump’s comments as reckless and unfounded.
The cleric concluded by urging Tinubu’s administration to take a firm stance to preserve Nigeria’s dignity on the global stage.
His words in full …
“For Trump to threaten a sovereign country with military attack is a profound disrespect to our authority, but we can rise above it. President Tinubu should summon the US ambassador; they either retract their threats or we sever diplomatic ties with this irresponsible regime. There are lots of other options for our economic expansion and military alliance.”
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