Ex-President Muhammadu Buhari’s former aide, Bashir Ahmad, has made a u-turn from his recent statement on being an Islamic extremist, saying he has many Christians as friends.

Days ago, Mr Ahmad drew sharp criticism from Nigerians when he tweeted that he was proud to be called an Islamic extremist, after showering praises on Yahya Sinwar, leader of Hamas, assassinated by Israeli soldiers, in October.

Mr Ahmad’s post on X was oddly timed especially as it came hours after a Saudi-born doctor unleashed terror in Germany, killing five people, including a nine-year-old boy, deepening speculations on the support of some government officials for terrorists in Nigeria.

Clarifying his position in a tweet on Wednesday, Mr Ahmad said he was quoted out of context, expressing his unapologetic condemnation for terrorists and terrorism in the country.

“I am aware that many of you have labeled me as an extremist a very long time ago simply because I hold onto my beliefs firmly and unapologetically. So, the thing you should know is that, if standing uncompromisingly in my faith makes you uncomfortable, so be it. There is absolutely nothing that can be done about it,” he wrote.

Mr Ahmad further described any form of terrorism as contradictory to the principles of justice and respect for human life, alleging religious blackmail from unidentified individuals.

“In my circle, both within and outside this country, I have several Christians, followers of other religions, and even those who don’t believe in any religion. If anyone deserves my explanation, it would be these individuals, and thank God they know me well enough that no explanation is necessary,” he added.