Victor Ezeja
AdminThe Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) on Friday demanded the immediate arrest and prosecution of Sheikh Ahmad Gumi over his recent divisive outbursts while condemning the appointment of Nyesom Wike as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
It accused the prominent Islamic cleric of mingling and acting as a spokesperson for terrorists in Nigeria.
Noting that Gumi was divisive in dismissing the FCT Administration’s decision to involve Israelis in Abuja’s security as a move that would lead to the city becoming an “extension of Tel Aviv”, HURIWA interpreted his comments as proof of Gumi’s purported sympathy for terrorists and his apparent willingness to see Nigeria destabilized by violent groups.
The pro-democracy group, in a statement issued by its National Coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko tasked the Nigerian government to address Gumi’s actions and statements, as he is not above the law.
The association also warned that “his opinions and actions may incite violence and pose a threat to the country’s security, just as it called for an investigation into whether Gumi’s activities may be contributing to the ongoing terrorism crisis in Nigeria.”
While emphasizing that President Bola Tinubu’s appointment of Wike as the FCT Minister is purely political and should not be seen from a religious lens, the association stoutly rejected any insinuation that a Christian cannot be the FCT Minister and sees such notion as an attempt to sow religious discord since Abuja belongs to all Nigerians and should not be subject to religious or regional divisions.
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HURIWA, while demanding the arrest and prosecution of Sheikh Gumi, harped on the need for accountability and justice in addressing issues arising from his controversial statements and activities. The association maintained that all Nigerians, regardless of their religious or regional backgrounds, have a stake in the country’s capital, peace, and security.
Continuing, HURIWA called on the Nigerian government to prioritize the safety and security of all its citizens, regardless of their background, and to take swift action to quell the rising tensions and divisive rhetoric. “The nation’s unity and stability are paramount, and no individual should be allowed to jeopardize them for their own interests,” it said.
The rights association urged the government to act decisively, and law enforcement agencies to investigate Sheikh Gumi’s activities, which are perceived as detrimental to the nation’s security. “In this crucial period, Nigeria must stand united against divisive influences and prioritize the safety of its citizens above all else.”
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