Sheikh Gumi Defends Peace Efforts, Says He Led 600 Bandits to Surrender
Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has defended his ongoing commentary on banditry and national security, rejecting calls for his arrest as “spineless, irresponsible and unpatriotic imbecilic people.”
In a statement on Facebook on Sunday, Gumi described critics as prioritising outrage over truth, and defended his mediation efforts aimed at securing peace in troubled communities.
“ARREST HIM!!! These are the only words some spineless, irresponsible and unpatriotic imbecilic people can utter,” he wrote, defending his efforts with bandits.
He recalled a January 2021 intervention in Sabon Garin Yadi forest, Kaduna State, where he, alongside the then Kaduna State Commissioner of Police, engaged over 600 armed bandits and their commanders. T
The meeting reportedly persuaded them to lay down their arms in exchange for security and basic amenities.
“I was at Sabon Garin Yadi forest, accompanied by the Kaduna State Commissioner of Police… This meeting was part of a peace initiative where we preached to over 600 bandits and their commanders, who agreed to lay down their arms in exchange for security and basic amenities.
“The purpose of the meeting was an effort to de-escalate violence by having bandits surrender their weapons and embrace peace. The outcome was that over 600 bandits agreed to lay down their arms. They presented conditions to the government… None fulfilled,” Gumi said.
Gumi questioned why his mediation should attract calls for arrest, stressing that free speech remains a constitutional right.
“Is free speech no longer part of our constitutional right? Is their call for arrest not also prejudiced and an incitement to more violence?” he asked.
He urged Nigerians to focus on practical solutions rather than emotional reactions, warning that targeting voices advocating dialogue only worsens insecurity.
“May Allah protect our nation from bigotry, stubborn and complete intolerance of contrary views and opinions,” Gumi concluded.
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
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