Sheikh Gumi has dismissed renewed calls for his arrest, insisting he did nothing wrong by engaging bandits during peace missions. He said critics prefer outrage to reason and have refused to examine Nigeria’s rising insecurity with honesty. Moreover, he argued that dialogue remains an essential tool in conflict resolution.
According to the cleric, those demanding his arrest are motivated by bias and misinformation. Instead of reflecting on solutions, they choose to politicise his efforts and spread fear. He described such reactions as emotional outbursts that add nothing to national security discussions.
Cleric Claims Authorities Approved Engagement
Gumi noted that his meetings with armed groups were transparent and conducted with official knowledge. In January 2021, he visited the Sabon Garin Yadi forest with the then Kaduna State Commissioner of Police, who represented the Inspector-General of Police. Because of this, he maintains that every step he took followed due process.
During the visit, he addressed more than 600 armed bandits and urged them to drop their weapons. The goal, he explained, was to prevent further violence and encourage reconciliation with affected communities. Additionally, he stressed that peace requires dialogue, not silence.
Gumi Urges Nigerians to Focus on Solutions
The cleric criticised what he called a culture of blame, saying Nigerians must shift their focus from anger to problem-solving. He pointed to global practices—highlighted in international reports showing that negotiations have often formed part of strategies to end armed conflicts.
Conclusion
Gumi reaffirmed that his engagement with bandits was lawful, transparent and carried out with the aim of restoring peace. He urged Nigerians to consider practical solutions rather than emotional reactions.
