Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmad Abubakar Mahmoud Gumi has called on the Nigerian government and military to reconsider their reliance on force in addressing banditry and insurgency. Speaking in Kaduna, he argued that the kinetic approach employed for nearly two decades has failed to deliver lasting peace.
Sheikh Gumi Calls for Dialogue and Rehabilitation
Gumi urged a shift toward dialogue, rehabilitation, and reintegration of repentant bandits, stressing that financial settlements alone, as attempted in states like Katsina and Zamfara, are insufficient. He questioned, "If the kinetic approach is not working for 17 years, why don't we change the approach?" He emphasized the need for fresh strategies beyond military action.
"Let's engage them. Let's dislodge them from the forest. Let's take their children and put them in school. Let's do something different," Gumi said. He noted that many bandits are willing to surrender but fear arrest or retaliation, highlighting the importance of a credible amnesty framework.
Lessons from Boko Haram Rehabilitation
Drawing parallels with the rehabilitation program for repentant Boko Haram members, Gumi suggested a similar model could be applied to rural banditry in the North-West. He stressed that listening to the conditions of those ready to lay down arms is crucial for peacebuilding. "These people told us they are ready to lay down their arms, but what are their conditions? Has anybody listened to them?" he queried.
The cleric also linked insecurity to poverty, social injustice, and corruption, urging Nigerian leaders to pursue reforms that address these root causes. He argued that without tackling underlying issues, violence will continue to resurface despite military efforts.
Sheikh Gumi's Background
Sheikh Ahmad Abubakar Mahmoud Gumi is a prominent Nigerian Islamic cleric, scholar, and public commentator known for his outspoken views on national security and social issues. Based in Kaduna, he has consistently advocated for dialogue and non-violent approaches to tackling banditry and insurgency, arguing that military force alone cannot bring lasting peace. Gumi has drawn attention to the role of poverty, corruption, and social injustice in fueling violence, urging leaders to adopt reforms that address these root causes. His calls for rehabilitation and reintegration of repentant fighters have made him a key voice in debates on peacebuilding across northern Nigeria.
Gumi Alleges Government Knows Terrorists' Identities
Legit.ng earlier reported that Sheikh Ahmad Gumi said the Nigerian government knows the identities and locations of terrorists in the country. He stated that he does not negotiate alone with bandits and terrorists in the bush and forest, but is accompanied by police, military, and other security agencies. As reported by Nigerian Tribune, Gumi made these remarks during a recent interview with DRTV, which started trending on Tuesday, March 10, 2026.
