Prominent Islamic scholar, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to take a firm diplomatic stance against the United States following remarks allegedly made by former U.S. President Donald Trump about a possible military intervention in Nigeria. Gumi described Trump's comments as "an affront to Nigeria's sovereignty and national dignity," urging the Federal Government to defend its independence through decisive action.

In a statement delivered on Sunday, the Kaduna-based cleric warned that the Nigerian government must not allow foreign powers to undermine its authority. He emphasized that every sovereign nation deserves respect in the global community, and that such threats must not be ignored. According to Gumi, Nigeria's leadership should act with courage and principle when faced with international provocation.

Sheikh Gumi specifically urged President Tinubu to summon the U.S. ambassador to Nigeria to demand an official apology and retraction. Should Washington fail to provide a satisfactory explanation, he said, Nigeria should consider suspending or cutting diplomatic relations to preserve its national pride and political integrity.

The cleric also advised Nigeria to diversify its international partnerships, noting that the world has evolved beyond Western dominance. "Nigeria must look towards partners who respect our sovereignty and share our values," he noted, suggesting stronger alliances with nations that appreciate mutual respect and cooperation.

Gumi's comments follow reports that Trump allegedly linked Nigeria to religious violence, sparking mixed reactions among political analysts and faith communities. The scholar urged Nigerians not to be provoked but to remain united and peaceful in defending their nation's honor.

Concluding his remarks, Sheikh Gumi prayed for peace, wisdom, and stability across Nigeria, saying: "May Allah bless our leaders with guidance and grant our nation lasting peace. Āmīn."

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