Sheikh Gumi files criminal complaint against Facebook users over alleged death threats, defamation

Renowned Islamic scholar, Sheikh Dr. Ahmad Abubakar Gumi, has filed a criminal complaint before the Chief Magistrate Court of Kaduna State against two Facebook users over alleged death threats and defamatory publications against him. 

The case, with suit number KMD/685/25, was filed on December 24, 2025, following a series of Facebook posts which Gumi said falsely portrayed him as issuing threats and inciting violence, thereby endangering his life and damaging his reputation.

According to court documents, the defendants, George Udom and Bello Isiaka, allegedly published a Facebook post on December 23, 2025, attributing to Sheikh Gumi a statement threatening the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa, over ongoing military operations against bandits.

The post allegedly claimed that the minister’s family in Zangon Kataf, Southern Kaduna, would be attacked if military offensives were not halted.

Sheikh Gumi, through his legal counsel, Suleiman Danlami Lere, Esq., denied ever making such a statement, describing the publication as false, malicious, and capable of portraying him as a sponsor of terrorism and a threat to national security.

The complainant told the court that the defendants used his name and photograph to give credibility to the alleged threat, thereby exposing him to possible retaliation from security agencies and members of the public.

The application for criminal summons cited relevant provisions of the Penal Code Law of Kaduna State, 2017, under which the defendants could face prosecution if the allegations are proven.

He stressed that as a cleric known for advocating peaceful dialogue, the publications were “wicked” and designed to incite hatred and violence against him.