An Islamic cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Abubakar Gumi, claimed that the United States government is plotting to kill him with an airstrike.

Gumi said he received the information from a top official in Abuja, the nation’s capital.

The Kaduna-based cleric called on Northern leaders and clerics to speak up against these lies.

The controversial cleric stated this while addressing his congregation in a video that has gone viral and was posted by X user @General_Somto on Sunday, January 4, 2026.

“I received a call from a top official in Abuja informing me that I am among those marked by the US for elimination through an American airstrike, as part of boko haram. Northern leaders and clerics must speak up against these lies.”

Nigerians react

@Anefiok:

At least we have a confirmation from him directly that someone within the Nigerian State leadership leaked classified information to him on the night of the attack, that he was among those earmarked to be eliminated. Someone is leaking this information. Who? We all know.

@pips_daily:

If the US is targeting you, maybe stop playing middleman for bandits, or you are the bandits.

@_ghodnation:

Collect your dream street! ke in peace na baba, 72 v1rgins & Lamborghinis, spokesman no wan go paradise again?

@IEnakhena:

It is also worth noting that in high-level politics, "information" passed to individuals is sometimes used as a tool for deterrence or psychological signaling. Sometimes, a "leak" isn't a mistake; it's a deliberate message sent through unofficial channels to get a person to change their behavior or to gauge public reaction. In the case of Sheikh Gumi, his public outcry serves to move the conversation from a private intelligence matter to a public, political one, which forces the government to take a formal stance.

@Sire_Sammi:

“This non kinetic terrorist” wants to play reverse psychology. How I wish we could even sign a petition for them to come and arrest and imprison him for life. His atrocities and what he’s encouraging are worse than what some openly terrorist people are doing. An airstrike on your hideout wouldn’t be bad. As an Islamic cleric, you should embrace your faith and meet your 72 v1rgins

@AdekunleOderind:

A top government official informed him to tip him off; this should tell everyone how FG is truly "fighting" terrorism and how villages claim that after soldiers withdrew from their communities, terrorists strike and kill them.

“I Received a Call From a Top Official In Abuja Informing Me That I Am Among Those Marked By The US For Elimination Through An America Airstrike, As Part Of Boko Haram. Northern Leaders And Clerics Must Speak Up Against These Lies.”- Sheikh Gumi Cries Out pic.twitter.com/2Ncopj0nJc

— Somto Okonkwo (@General_Somto) January 4, 2026

Sheikh Gumi reacts after US launched airstrikes in Sokoto

Recall that Gumi condemned US airstrikes in Sokoto State, in the northern part of Nigeria, warning of deepening insecurity and sovereignty erosion.

Gumi argued that foreign military intervention compromised Nigeria's integrity and risked experiencing increased violence and polarisation.

The Islamic scholar called for a halt to US military cooperation and suggested Nigeria approach neutral countries like China and Turkey for assistance.