Northern Islamic cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Mahmoud Gumi, has distanced himself from alleged statements and video clips claiming that he supported or justified banditry in Nigeria, saying, such materials were faked, manipulated, and doctored.

Gumi made his position known in his Facebook account, and explained that he had noticed repeated misquotations in some of his media interviews, public lectures, and public engagements on issues relating to insecurity and banditry in the country.

He accused certain ethnic-interest groups, prejudiced individuals, and sectional internet content creators of twisting his comments and using sensational headlines to attract public attention at the expense of national suffering.

“I hereby state unequivocally that any video clip, written statement, or message attributed to me, whether directly or by innuendo, suggesting support for, justification of, protection of, or advocacy for banditry in Nigeria or anywhere else does not emanate from me,” he said.

Besides, the Islamic cleric reaffirmed his loyalty to Nigeria, describing the country as a nation with unmatched potential.

Gumi urged the public, media organisations, and security agencies to disregard what he called false narratives currently circulating online and elsewhere.

He also warned that anyone who continue the circulation of false information against him after the release of the statement would face legal action.

He further expressed hope for lasting peace in the country, praying for comfort for victims of violence and calling for collective efforts to tackle insecurity, poverty, ignorance, and social injustice in the country.