Sheikh Gumi Debunks Viral Arrest Rumours by US Military, Calls Image AI-Generated Fabrication

Prominent Islamic cleric, Sheikh Ahmed Gumi, has strongly dismissed circulating reports and images on social media claiming that he was arrested by United States military personnel at a Nigerian airport, describing the viral photograph as an Artificial Intelligence (AI)-generated fake.

The speculation erupted on Thursday, February 5, when a photograph began making rounds online, purportedly showing Sheikh Gumi in custody of US soldiers. The image, which quickly gained traction across platforms, was accompanied by claims that the cleric was detained as part of a foreign counterterrorism operation on Nigerian soil. Allegations further suggested he was attempting to flee to Turkey amid unverified links to terrorist organisations and their hideouts.

As earlier reported by NaijaChoice News, the controversial image sparked widespread debate and concern among Nigerians, with many questioning the implications of foreign military involvement in domestic affairs.

Speaking to journalists in Kaduna on Thursday, Sheikh Gumi outrightly rejected the allegations, labelling them as baseless and illogical. “The US Army cannot arrest me in Nigeria. Why will the US Army come and arrest me in Nigeria, for what reason?” he queried, emphasising the absurdity of such claims.

Addressing the authenticity of the widely shared image, the cleric insisted it was digitally manipulated. “The image is Artificial Intelligence (AI)-generated. Even a layman will know that the image is AI,” Gumi stated, urging the public not to be misled by the fabrication. He reiterated his freedom, saying, “I have not been arrested,” and confirmed that he remains at liberty in Nigeria.

Sheikh Gumi, known for his controversial role in mediating between the Nigerian government and bandit groups in the North-West, has often been at the centre of public discourse on security issues. This latest episode highlights the growing challenge of misinformation and AI-generated content in fueling unnecessary panic and division.

Multiple sources, including Sahara Reporters and Daily Post Nigeria, have corroborated Gumi’s denial, with no official confirmation from US authorities or Nigerian security agencies regarding any such operation.