Gumi Defends Right to Travel Across Nigeria Amid Criticism

Ahmad Gumi, a prominent Islamic cleric, responded to criticisms surrounding his visit to Ibadan, Oyo State, last year, stating that no individual or group can stop him from traveling anywhere in Nigeria. He made these comments in a Facebook post on Tuesday, explaining that his visit was not an invitation from any Muslim organization or individual in the Southwest.

Gumi attended the event as a representative of the Coalition of Northern Islamic Scholars and highlighted the influence of Islamophobia on politics in the Southwest. He also addressed a recent kidnapping incident in the Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, refuting reports that the kidnappers demanded the introduction of Sharia law or a ransom of N1 billion for the release of Rachael Alamu, a principal at a community high school.

Gumi's visit to Ibadan occurred on November 19, 2025, where he was a guest speaker at the Southern Nigerian Ulama Summit held at the University of Ibadan.