‘I Led 600 Bandits to Surrender’ — Gumi Defends Negotiation Role!
Reported by Marian Opeyemi Fasesan | Sele Media Africa
Controversial Islamic cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, has defended his role in negotiating with bandits, amid mounting calls for his arrest. Gumi, speaking in Kaduna on Sunday, argued that his involvement in dialogue was in the national interest and recalled a past success where he facilitated the surrender of 600 bandits in Zamfara State.
“I am not their supporter. I am a mediator who helped reduce bloodshed. People forget I led 600 armed men to lay down their weapons,” Gumi stated.
Key Details:
- Sheikh Gumi has come under fire following renewed insecurity in the North-West, with critics accusing him of enabling criminal elements.
- He insisted that engagement and dialogue remain viable options where military operations fall short.
- Gumi urged the government to revisit peace initiatives instead of pursuing purely kinetic strategies.
Why It Matters:
- The cleric’s statement revives the debate on whether negotiation with terrorists and bandits is legitimate or counterproductive.
- His past interventions were controversial but gained traction among local communities affected by violence.
- It raises questions about the legal and moral boundaries of non-state actors in conflict resolution.
What to Watch:
- Federal government’s stance on Gumi’s continued involvement.
- Possible security or legal response from agencies under public pressure.
- Renewed calls for structured dialogue mechanisms in Nigeria’s counterinsurgency policy.
Citations:
- Daily Trust – “Gumi: I Helped 600 Bandits Surrender, I Won’t Stop Negotiating” (Nov. 2025)
- Channels TV – “Sheikh Gumi Defends Role in Bandit Dialogue”
- Premium Times – “Cleric Under Fire for Bandit Peace Talks”
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