Ahmad Gumi says no one can stop him from going anywhere in Nigeria.
The popular Islamic cleric made this clear on Tuesday in a Facebook post, responding to criticism over his visit to Ibadan last year. He rejected allegations that he was pushing Islamisation in Oyo State or spreading northern religious ideas in the South-West.
“I now understand how Islamophobia is shaping politics in the South-West and why I was dragged into local political controversies,” Gumi wrote.
He explained that his trip wasn't at the invitation of any Muslim group or individual in the South-West. Instead, he went as a representative of the Coalition of Northern Muslim Ulama — a body of northern Islamic scholars.
“Can anybody stop me from going anywhere in Nigeria?” he asked.
Gumi visited Ibadan on November 19, 2025, to speak at the Southern Nigerian Ulama Summit held at the University of Ibadan. While there, he also attended a courtesy meeting with prominent Muslim scholars from both the North and South.
His comments come a day after a kidnapping victim in Oyo State contradicted earlier reports. Mrs. Rachael Alamu, principal of Community High School, Esiele, was abducted in Oriire Local Government Area. In a viral video recorded while she was still in captivity, she said the kidnappers didn't demand Sharia law or a N1 billion ransom. Instead, they wanted their associates who are in government custody released.
Gumi has been a controversial figure in Nigeria for years. He has often spoken out in defence of bandits and urged the government to negotiate with them rather than use military force. His critics accuse him of sympathising with criminals. He has also faced backlash for blaming the Fulani herdsmen crisis on other ethnic groups.
This isn't the first time Gumi has been dragged into a political storm. In 2021, he was questioned by the Department of State Services (DSS) over comments he made about the government's handling of insecurity. He has also been accused of using his influence to shield bandits from prosecution.
Despite the criticism, Gumi remains unapologetic. He continues to travel across the country, meeting with community leaders and preaching peace. His latest statement is a clear warning to his opponents: he won't be silenced or restricted.
The controversy around his Ibadan visit shows how sensitive religious and regional tensions are in Nigeria. The South-West has seen growing debates about the role of Islam in public life, and Gumi's presence only added fuel to the fire.
For now, Gumi isn't backing down. He insists he has every right to move freely within Nigeria and will continue to do so.