Nigerian Islamic cleric Ahmad Gumi has expressed sorrow over the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed in Israeli-US military strikes in Iran, according to state media. Iranian authorities have confirmed the 86-year-old leader’s death and declared a 40-day mourning period following the weekend attacks. 

In a Facebook post on Sunday, Gumi described Khamenei as a “fortunate soul” who died in what he termed Jihad against those he accused of committing injustice. He praised the late cleric for not seeking refuge in bunkers but standing firm in his convictions. 

He said, “Ayatollah Ali Khamenei: A fortunate soul, he died in Jihad against killers of innocent children and women in Gaza and elsewhere.” Gumi added that Khamenei’s sacrifice would inspire change within the Muslim community (ummah). 

The cleric also challenged those responsible, asserting, “For those who killed him or helped in killing him, let us see what they will live to do in this world.” 

Khamenei’s death marks a dramatic turn in the escalating conflict between the US, Israel and Iran, with Tehran observing extended mourning and uncertainty surrounding the nation’s future leadership.