Controversial Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has condemned the Federal Government’s decision to officially designate bandits as terrorists, warning that the move has permanently foreclosed any prospect of dialogue.
In a viral video message, the Kaduna-based cleric—who has previously visited bandit enclaves and championed negotiated settlements—stated that religious leaders can no longer serve as intermediaries in the crisis. According to Gumi, the government’s classification has eliminated the sole remaining channel for peaceful engagement.
“We do not wish to push them towards terrorism beyond their current activities, as matters could deteriorate further,” Gumi asserted. “They have demonstrated a readiness to negotiate. Why then the rush to brand them terrorists, thereby justifying the deployment of newly acquired weaponry?”
The cleric recalled that bandits had previously cooperated with security forces, citing instances where they assisted in apprehending Boko Haram elements in Zamfara State. “They used to capture Boko Haram members and hand them over to authorities in Zamfara. Now, they are all lumped together as terrorists,” he added.
Gumi warned that the policy shift has irrevocably obstructed clerical intervention. “The only remaining avenue—for us clergy to enter and negotiate with them—has now been permanently closed,” he concluded.