Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has advised President Bola Tinubu’s administration to learn from the peace efforts between Israel and Hamas by pursuing dialogue and reconciliation with Nigeria’s armed bandits. Speaking amidst ongoing peace talks and increasing insecurity, Gumi urged the federal government to prioritize peaceful negotiations over military confrontations.
He warned that provoking bandits could exacerbate violence and advised that efforts should focus on educating and reintegrating bandits into society, similar to approaches taken in the Niger Delta insurgency and recent conflict resolutions abroad. Sheikh Gumi highlighted that many bandits are exploited due to ignorance and a desire for vengeance, emphasizing the need for empathy and inclusive peace strategies.
Gumi’s remarks come as several bandit leaders in northern Nigeria have indicated willingness to engage in peace agreements, with some communities experiencing fragile ceasefires. He cautioned the government and security agencies against actions that might jeopardize these delicate negotiations.
The cleric’s call reflects rising concerns about the effectiveness of purely military solutions to Nigeria’s security challenges and underscores the importance of dialogue in achieving sustainable peace.
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