Gumi’s alleged support for banditry could attract 20-year jail term under Nigerian law — Deji Adeyanju

Human rights lawyer and activist, Deji Adeyanju, has stated that Islamic cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi’s alleged promotion and defence of banditry could attract up to 20 years imprisonment under the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.

Adeyanju made the assertion while reacting to what he described as repeated public comments and rhetoric by the cleric perceived to be sympathetic towards armed bandits operating in parts of Northern Nigeria.

According to him, the anti-terrorism law in Nigeria does not only punish individuals who directly participate in terrorist attacks, but also criminalises actions capable of encouraging, promoting, justifying, or supporting terrorist activities and groups.

He explained that the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022 broadly defines support for terrorism to include incitement, ideological encouragement, public advocacy, dissemination of materials capable of advancing violent causes, as well as moral or verbal backing for persons involved in acts of terror.

Citing Section 13 of the Act, Adeyanju noted that anyone found guilty of soliciting for, rendering support to, or associating with terrorist groups could face imprisonment for a term of not less than 20 years.

The activist further questioned what he described as a double standard in the treatment of Sheikh Ahmad Gumi and detained Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Nnamdi Kanu.

According to him, the Federal Government has repeatedly argued that Kanu’s broadcasts and public statements amounted to incitement and support for unlawful violence, forming part of the basis for his prosecution under anti-terrorism laws.

Adeyanju argued that Gumi’s alleged public defence of armed bandits, comments perceived to justify their actions, and repeated calls viewed as sympathetic to violent groups should equally attract legal scrutiny under the same law.

“In a country where terrorists and bandits have killed innocent citizens, displaced communities, and destabilised entire regions, the law must be applied equally, regardless of ethnicity, religion, or political alliance,” he stated.

Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has in the past attracted public criticism over comments and engagements relating to armed bandits, though he has maintained that his involvement was aimed at dialogue and peaceful resolution of insecurity in the region.