Sheikh Gumi Urges Nigerian Youths to Postpone Protests for Better Preparation

Controversial Islamic scholar Sheikh Ahmed Abubakar Gumi has urged Nigerian youth to delay their planned #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protest, originally scheduled for August 1, until January next year. Gumi emphasized the importance of better organization and thorough preparation for the protest.

In a video obtained, Gumi highlighted the crucial role of the youth in the nation’s future, stating, “Nigerian youths can be said to be the last hope of this nation.” He advised the youth to involve various associations in the protest planning process, saying, “The youth should wait and make adequate and proper preparation and arrangement for the protest.”

Criticizing labor unions for often being “silenced by government bribes,” Gumi stressed the government’s responsibility to address the pressing issues raised by the youth. Addressing widespread corruption, he praised the youth’s initiative against bad governance, calling it “a great precursor of a brighter future for this nation.”

However, Gumi warned that a premature action could lead to anarchy and emphasized the need for sufficient time to articulate demands effectively. He expressed hope that the youth would heed his advice, stating, “I pray they listen.”

Gistcore recently reported that Gumi urged Nigerians to engage in peaceful protests as a means of conveying their grievances to the government, emphasizing that protests are a crucial tool for driving change. In a video clip seen by SaharaReporters, Sheik Gumi stressed the importance of peaceful demonstrations while cautioning against the use of violence or incitement. “Politicians are very stubborn, it is mass protests that only disturb them,” he said.

Addressing concerns over comparisons with past protests in countries like Sudan, Lebanon, and Liberia, Sheik Gumi highlighted Nigeria’s unique diversity. “In Sudan and Liberia, the conflicts were like family feuds, which are very dangerous. But Nigeria is different, with diverse ethnicities, religions, cultures, tribes, and sects,” he explained, noting internal tensions even within religious sects like the Izala in Nigeria.

Gumi’s call for a well-prepared and peaceful protest underscores the importance of strategic planning in achieving meaningful change without resorting to chaos. His remarks reflect a broader understanding of the complex social fabric of Nigeria and the potential impact of a unified and organized youth movement.