Nigerian entertainer, Charles Oputa, popularly known as Charly Boy, has sharply criticised Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmed Gumi over his recent claim that attacking bandits is not the solution to Nigeria’s insecurity crisis.
Gumi had argued that confronting bandits with force would worsen the situation and advised that they should be engaged in dialogue instead.
Reacting in a strongly worded Instagram post, Charly Boy condemned the cleric’s position, questioning why anyone would advocate negotiations with groups responsible for widespread killings, abductions, and displacement.
He accused Gumi of consistently defending criminals and making statements that undermine national security.
Charly Boy wrote:
“Sheikh Gumi, are you alright? Do you think before you speak? You claim attacking bandits would be a mistake—why should we negotiate with people causing so much pain across the country?
“Families are burying loved ones, farmers can’t go to their farms, communities have been deserted, yet you continue to defend those terrorising innocent Nigerians.”
The entertainer further accused the cleric of acting as a spokesperson and sympathiser for bandits, stating that his repeated calls for negotiation, amnesty, and leniency were insensitive to victims.
He added:
“You speak as though the bandits are the ones deserving protection. What negotiation have you suggested for their victims? What support have you offered families whose lives have been shattered?”
Charly Boy urged Gumi to stop making statements that embolden criminals and instead use his influence to advocate for justice, protection of citizens, and decisive action from the government.
He concluded by warning that leaders or clerics who excuse violent criminals under the guise of “dialogue” are contributing to Nigeria’s insecurity.
