Gumi’s comments: US should act independently against terrorism in Nigeria — Timi Frank
U.S. Should Reassess Nigeria Cooperation, Activist Urges
Timi Frank, a prominent activist and former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has called for the United States to reconsider its military cooperation with Nigeria in light of recent statements by Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmad Gumi regarding banditry and terrorism.
In a statement released Wednesday, Frank called for independent action by the U.S. against terrorism in Nigeria. His remarks follow Gumi’s assertions that Nigerian authorities may have knowledge of the identities and locations of bandits operating in the country.
Frank expressed concern that Gumi’s comments raise significant questions about the Nigerian government’s approach to security. “If the government knows where these criminals are, Nigerians deserve to understand why decisive action has not been taken,” he stated.
He further alleged that the current APC administration, led by President Bola Tinubu, may benefit from ongoing insecurity as a means to manipulate the upcoming 2027 general elections. “If the government is aware of the bandits’ identities and locations, we must question the lack of action taken against them,” he added.
Frank urged the U.S. government to exercise caution in its engagements with the Nigerian administration. He suggested halting intelligence sharing and security cooperation with Nigerian officials until the situation improves, noting, “Despite security assistance from international partners, the situation on the ground continues to deteriorate.”
He called on President Donald Trump to take decisive measures against terrorist groups operating in Nigeria, emphasizing the need for the U.S. to confront these networks, even if it requires independent action. “If the United States is committed to helping Nigeria defeat terrorism, it must be prepared to act firmly against those responsible for the violence,” Frank said.
As these discussions unfold, the Nigerian government faces mounting pressure to address ongoing security challenges affecting the country’s stability.
