Popular Islamic cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, has defended his long-standing role as a negotiator with bandits, insisting he has committed no offence and should not be arrested for advocating dialogue.
In a statement posted on Facebook on Sunday, Gumi blasted critics calling for his arrest, describing them as “spineless, irresponsible and unpatriotic imbecilic people” who prefer outrage to solutions.
Gumi, who has repeatedly positioned himself as a mediator between the government and armed groups, said those attacking him have chosen to ignore Nigeria’s worsening insecurity.
According to him, one of his most significant interventions took place in January 2021 at Sabon Garin Yadi forest in Giwa LGA of Kaduna State, where over 600 armed bandits and their commanders met with him in the presence of the then Kaduna Commissioner of Police, representing the Inspector-General of Police.
He said the bandits agreed to lay down their arms after being assured of basic amenities, protection from arbitrary arrests and a pathway to peace, conditions he claimed the government failed to honour.
“The purpose of the meeting was to de-escalate violence by having bandits surrender their weapons and embrace peace. Over 600 bandits agreed. They presented conditions… none fulfilled,” he said.
Gumi stressed that his mediation was done openly and with the full knowledge of security authorities, adding that blaming him for the failures of government policy is misguided.
“So, what is there to arrest me for? For calling them to lay down their arms? For seeking amenities for them? Or for educating the nation on their side of the story?” he asked.
The cleric also accused his critics of intolerance and hypocrisy, warning that shutting down voices that promote dialogue will only worsen insecurity.
“Is free speech no longer part of our constitutional right? Their call for arrest is prejudiced and an incitement to more violence,” he added.
Gumi urged Nigerians to rise above emotional reactions and embrace practical approaches to ending banditry, noting that hate-driven narratives will not bring peace.
He ended with a prayer for unity, saying bigotry remains a major threat to national stability.
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