Prominent Islamic cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, has defended his controversial visit to Ibadan, Oyo State, insisting that no one can prevent him from travelling to any part of Nigeria.
Gumi’s response comes amid criticism from some quarters who accused him of attempting to spread northern Islamic ideologies and influence in the South-West.
In a statement shared on his Facebook page on Tuesday, the cleric said he was not invited by any Muslim group or individual in the region, explaining that he attended the event in Ibadan as a representative of the Coalition of Northern Muslim Ulama.
I quite understand now how Islamophobia is shaping politics in the South-West and why I was unnecessarily dragged into their dirty local politics,” Gumi wrote.
I was in Ibadan, not by the invitation of any South-West Muslim individual or group, but as a representative of the Coalition of Northern Muslim Ulama. Can anybody stop me from going anywhere in Nigeria? he asked.
Gumi’s remarks came barely a day after one of the victims abducted in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State denied reports that the kidnappers demanded the implementation of Sharia law as a condition for their release.
In a video recorded while in captivity, the principal of Community High School, Esiele, Mrs Rachael Alamu, dismissed claims that the abductors requested a N1 billion ransom or sought the introduction of Sharia law in the state.
According to her, the gunmen only demanded the release of some of their associates currently in government custody.
The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) had also dismissed reports suggesting that the kidnappers demanded Sharia law.
In a statement issued on Monday, the Islamic advocacy group described the claims as “a lie from the pit of Jahannam (hell)” and alleged that enemies of Islam inserted the demand into negotiations to tarnish the religion’s image.
Recall that Sheikh Gumi visited Ibadan on November 19, 2025, where he attended the Southern Nigerian Ulama Summit held at the University of Ibadan.
He participated as a special guest and keynote speaker and later joined other notable Muslim scholars from both the North and South during a courtesy visit.
His latest comments appear to be aimed at addressing the backlash generated by his visit and growing debates surrounding religion and insecurity in parts of the country.
