Mixed reactions as Sheikh Gumi’s son graduates from Nigerian Defence Academy

Abdulrahaman Ahmad, son of controversial Islamic cleric Sheikh Abubakar Gumi, has graduated from the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), Kaduna.

Former senator, Shehu Sani, confirmed the development in a post on 𝕏 (formerly Twitter) on Sunday, where he shared a photograph of Gumi and his son.

“Sheikh Gumi’s son Abdulrahaman Ahmad, graduated from the Nigerian Defence Academy; Congratulations and wishing him all the best in the service to our country,” Sani wrote on X.

Gumi previously served in the Nigerian army, where he attained the rank of captain before retiring.

The NDA, established in 1964, remains Nigeria’s foremost military institution, training officers for the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

Meanwhile, sources told TheCable that the photograph currently circulating on social media originated from a pre-graduation programme.

The source said the graduation ceremony for the new cadets is scheduled for Saturday, September 27.

The Sani’s social media post has generated mixed reactions from Nigerians

The responses were varied, reflecting the complex views surrounding the Gumi family, especially given Gumi’s controversial role as a mediator between the government and bandits.

“Okay…..now I understand why your government is reintegrating Boko Haram terrorists into the Nigerian military,” Aondona Onjefu, a netizen wrote.

“What a smart move by Gumi, bokoharam spokesperson/mediator has successfully planted his son in the Nigerian army. Do your arithmetic well, you will surely have the equal to =”, another user commented.

@Frankiee44 wrote; “Best wishes to the Nigerian army. Perhaps the son could be assigned to the troubled region, where he can demonstrate his courage just as well. After all, his father—the sheikh himself—has long been a voice for the people in that area…”