The federal government has confirmed that Kaduna-based Islamic cleric, Ahmad Gumi, has been invited for questioning regarding his recent comments on the activities of bandits in the country. Mohammed Idris, the Minister of Information and Orientation, made this disclosure while speaking to journalists at the State House in Abuja on Monday.
Gumi’s remarks sparked controversy as he criticized the government’s reliance on forceful tactics to address the issue of banditry, advocating for a more nuanced approach. He suggested that the government should engage with the bandits, understand their grievances, and provide them with better living conditions, arguing that the current kinetic approach has only exacerbated the situation.
According to Gumi, the lack of intelligence and understanding of the bandits’ identities and motivations hampers effective countermeasures. He proposed a strategy akin to the Niger Delta amnesty initiative, which successfully reduced militancy in the region by offering rehabilitation and opportunities for former militants.
Gumi also emphasized the importance of distinguishing between the leaders and foot soldiers of the bandit groups, suggesting that while the leaders may be known, the lower-level operatives remain elusive. He warned against indiscriminate use of force, which could alienate the civilian population and escalate violence.
The cleric’s remarks underscore the need for a comprehensive and strategic approach to addressing insecurity in Nigeria, one that goes beyond military intervention to address underlying grievances and social conditions that fuel banditry and other forms of violence. The invitation for questioning indicates the government’s seriousness in addressing these concerns and exploring alternative solutions to the security challenges facing the country.
