Prominent Kaduna-based Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has provided crucial insights into the persistent attacks by armed bandits across various Nigerian communities, describing their actions as revenge missions rather than random violence.
Bandits' Motivations and Government Dialogue
During a recent appearance on Trust TV on Friday, November 7, 2025, the controversial cleric emphasized that armed bandits do not attack innocent Nigerians without specific reasons. According to Gumi, these criminal elements are primarily driven by revenge motives in their operations across multiple states.
"They don't just attack without a cause. Bandits are on a revenge mission," Gumi stated during the television program. The cleric further revealed that bandits would be willing to participate in peace negotiations if formally invited by the federal government, distinguishing them from other agitators in the country.
Contrast with IPOB's Approach
Sheikh Gumi drew significant comparisons between armed bandits and the proscribed Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB), highlighting critical differences in their willingness to engage with authorities. "If you call them for peace, they will come. They are not like IPOB members who have refused to dialogue," Gumi explained, referencing the southeast-based separatist group.
This comparison comes amid ongoing security challenges in both northern and southeastern regions of Nigeria, where different armed groups continue to pose serious threats to national stability and civilian safety.
US-Nigeria Tensions and Sovereignty Concerns
The cleric's comments emerged during his reaction to United States President Donald Trump's alleged plans for military action against Nigeria. Gumi strongly condemned what he described as an insult to Nigeria's sovereignty and expressed grave concerns about potential American intentions.
In a startling revelation, Sheikh Gumi alleged that the United States might be planning an attack on Aso Rock Presidential Villa with the objective of eliminating President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and other top government officials. These allegations add another layer of complexity to the already tense diplomatic relations between Nigeria and the United States.
Gumi urged President Tinubu to maintain a firm stance against President Trump's military threats, which the US leader reportedly justified by alleging Christian genocide in Nigeria. The Islamic cleric's intervention highlights the growing international dimensions of Nigeria's internal security challenges.
Future Projections and Political Analysis
Beyond the immediate security concerns, Sheikh Gumi made noteworthy predictions about American politics, suggesting that a Muslim could eventually become President of the United States. This projection came as he analyzed the victory of Zohran Mamdani as New York City Mayor, seeing it as indicative of changing political landscapes in Western nations.
The cleric's comprehensive analysis connects local security issues with global political developments, offering a unique perspective on how international relations might influence Nigeria's domestic challenges in the coming years.
As Nigeria continues to grapple with multiple security threats, Gumi's call for dialogue with armed bandits presents both opportunities and controversies in the ongoing debate about how best to achieve sustainable peace in affected regions.
