As per an announcement from his verified Facebook page on Monday, April 20, notable Islamic leader Sheikh Dr. Ahmad Abubakar Mahmud Gumi has asserted that Boko Haram militants can no longer justify their acts of violence, following the increased humanitarian and military involvement of Turkey in Nigeria.
In a recent Facebook update, Gumi commended Turkey for its support to Nigerian organizations such as Nile University, Nizamiya Hospital, and various secondary schools, along with providing food assistance for the less fortunate.
“Welcome to Turkey, as their actions do not bring harm to God’s servants,” he stated.
The cleric’s remarks were in response to a BBC Hausa article reporting that Turkey plans to set up a military training camp in Nigeria. An image included in the report depicted Turkish military helicopters and troops engaged in training exercises.
Gumi reasoned that with Turkey’s presence in the region, Boko Haram can no longer argue that they are fighting against non-Muslims. He also expressed hope that criminals could be convinced to surrender their weapons.
“Currently, Boko Haram cannot claim they are battling non-Muslims. And, by God’s will, they will influence the bandits to give up their arms. I pray this will end this suffering,” he remarked.
The cleric also encouraged Nigerians to refrain from unethical activities, cautioning that the country might face divine consequences for such conduct. He finished with a prayer for tranquility.
“May Allah bless us with peace. Ameen to this. Ameen,” he concluded.