A group under the auspices of World Institute for Peace (WIfP) has demanded the arrest and prosecution controversial Islamic cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, over his comments and stance on insecurity in Nigeria.

In a recent statement, the group said it had become important for security agencies to interrogate Gumi to determine the level of his involvement in the insecurity destroying the country, especially the northern region.

The WIfP’s statement was endorsed by its Chairman, Lamina Kamiludeen, during meeting held in Osogbo, Osun State recently.

“At different times in the past, Sheikh Gumi has made controversial remarks about military campaigns against insurgence and banditry in the north,” the statement said.

Kamiludeen said: “While speaking at a forum last week on the topic ‘when will there be an end to Nigeria’s recurring abductions?’ via X space, Gumi was quoted as saying “To them (military) they are fighting a war. Honestly, the military has been very hard on them, the Air Force is killing their families.”

He wondered if Gumi was above the law that he cannot be summoned for questioning over alleged inflammatory comments he has been making which not only undermine the efforts of security forces but would also encourage perpetrators of crimes to continue creating security challenges across the country.

The group said: “His continuous criticism and condemnation of the efforts of the security forces send signals that Gumi may be among the sponsors of the insecurity in Nigeria.

“Nigerian security agents must take immediate action to question Sheik Gumi regarding his involvement in the ongoing insecurity in the country.

“His actions constitute a threat to national security and must be addressed with urgency. Or is Gumi above the law? Action must the taken to prove that no one is above the law of the land.”