Cleric backs elimination of terrorists but cautions against operations he says risk civilian lives, as Tinubu hails Nigeria–US strike

Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has weighed in on the killing of senior ISIS commander Abu-Bilal Al-Manuki, also known as Abu-Mainok, following a joint military operation by Nigerian and United States forces in the Lake Chad Basin.

Reacting via a statement posted on his official Facebook page, Gumi emphasized that while combating terrorism is necessary, it must not be carried out through what he described as unjust means.

“It’s a religious obligation to annihilate terrorists, but not with Beelzebub and hands stained with the blood of innocent men, women, and children,” he said.

His remarks signal support for the fight against terrorism but raise concerns about the conduct of such operations, particularly where civilian casualties or perceived injustice may occur.

The cleric’s reaction follows confirmation by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu that Al-Manuki, along with several of his lieutenants, was killed in a coordinated strike on a terrorist hideout in the Lake Chad region. Tinubu described the mission as a significant blow to terrorist networks and praised the cooperation between Nigerian and U.S. forces.

Gumi’s comments have since triggered mixed reactions online. Supporters say he is highlighting the need to protect innocent lives during military operations, while critics argue that his timing and tone undermine a major counterterrorism success.