We Can No Longer Negotiate With Bandits — Sheikh Gumi Blames FG

Controversial Islamic cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, has criticised the Federal Government over its decision to designate bandits as terrorists, warning that the move has effectively closed off opportunities for negotiation and peaceful resolution of the security crisis.

Gumi, known for previously visiting bandit camps and advocating dialogue with armed groups, made the remarks in a viral video, where he said clerics could no longer intervene in the conflict due to what he described as the government’s hardline stance.

According to him, the terrorism label risks worsening insecurity as it may further radicalise the armed groups and remove any remaining room for engagement.

“We don’t want to push them into terror beyond what they are doing now because it can get worse,” Gumi said.

“They have shown us their willingness to negotiate, so people that are ready to negotiate, why are you rushing to declare them bandits so that you can use whatever weapons you bought?”

He maintained that some of the armed groups had previously indicated readiness for dialogue and cooperation with authorities.

The cleric also claimed that in the past, some bandits assisted in apprehending Boko Haram members in Zamfara State.

“Before, they used to catch Boko Haram and present them to the authorities in Zamfara, but now they are all terrorists,” he said.

Gumi further warned that the government’s position had permanently shut down what he described as the only remaining channel for mediation between the state and the armed groups.

“Secondly, the only door that is remaining is for us clergy to go in and negotiate with them; that is closed permanently,” he added.