Controversial Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has sparked outrage with claims that certain groups in Nigeria’s Middle Belt are staging fake mass burials to falsely portray the killing of Christians and fuel what he described as a “fake narrative” of genocide.
In a post shared on his verified Facebook page, Gumi alleged that empty coffins were being buried and filmed to simulate mass killings.
He cited a message from an unnamed doctor, stating: “Do you know that some Middle Belt Christian groups are now staging fake mass killings? They are burying empty coffins and recording the process as if real victims were killed, just to push the narrative of a Christian genocide. This is desperation at its peak. A disgrace. Manipulating information just to provoke hatred and international sympathy.”
The cleric’s remarks come amid growing international concern over religious persecution in Nigeria, following recent comments by U.S. President Donald Trump suggesting possible military intervention to protect Christians in the region.
Gumi, currently in Turkey, has faced criticism over his extended stay abroad. However, he dismissed speculation that he fled Nigeria to avoid potential U.S. action, insisting that his trip had been planned before Trump’s statement.
The allegations have drawn mixed reactions online, with many questioning the veracity of Gumi’s claims and the implications for interfaith relations in Nigeria.
