Popular Kaduna-based Islamic cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, has confirmed that he collaborates with police and government officials to negotiate with bandits in their territories.
In an interview with Punch, Gumi stated that his involvement in negotiations stems from his commitment as a Nigerian to fostering peace and tranquillity in the region, emphasizing that he cannot afford to wait for the official narrative on the situation.
Sheikh Gumi disclosed that his interactions with bandits aim to broker peace, highlighting the open doors he receives when meeting them.
He noted that these discussions are vital for addressing the underlying issues contributing to the rise in banditry and violence in the country.
The cleric’s approach has drawn both support and criticism, as he seeks to bridge the gap between the government and the bandit groups.
Gumi said, “I am in the eye of the storm, and I am a full-fledged Nigerian. I also have an interest in peace and tranquillity. I cannot wait for the official narrative because I have been in the army and I know how things go.
“Today, 90 per cent of our intelligence is garbage. What we have left is just about 10 per cent. That is why we have coups because intelligence does not have a way to identify these people.
“They also killed their leaders because no intelligence picked them up. Can we wait until we get a government that understands, then, we can make plans to intervene and see if it can calm nerves to achieve peace. No, as individuals, we have to do our best. Then I can advise the government on what we have seen.
“One thing Nigerians should understand is that I have never been to any den of these people without officials of the government. I go with the police because one cannot go alone; you must go with them.
“Only that they will tell you there is a perimeter—don’t come with some of them. Sometimes, I also go with traditional institutions and state government officials. My plan is only to broker peace with them. They open their doors for us to sit and discuss issues.”