Islamic scholar Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has refuted calls for his arrest over his advocacy for an engagement in dialogue with armed bandits in the North-West.
In a Facebook post, Gumi stressed that his meetings with the armed groups is a legitimate peace strategy aimed at de-escallating crisis and were conducted with the full knowledge and approval of relevant authorities, including the presence of the then-Kaduna State Commissioner of Police, representing the Inspector General of Police.
Many Nigerians accused Gumi of sympathizing with criminals, calling for his arrest after he recently reiterated his support for dialogue as the most viable approach to ending the violence.
Meanwhile, Gumi maintained that his engagement was transparent, aimed at encouraging over 600 bandits and their commanders to surrender in exchange for security and basic amenities.
So, what is there to arrest for? For calling them to lay arms or amenities for them, or to educate the nation on their side of the story?
Gumi recounted on a January 2021 meeting in the Sabon Garin Yadi forest in Giwa Local Government Area of Kaduna State, stating he was accompanied by the Kaduna State Commissioner of Police, who represented the Inspector General of Police.
The scholar accused the government of contributing to the failure of the peace process by allegedly failing to fulfill its commitments. The armed groups had requested basic community facilities, freedom from arbitrary arrest, and assurance against being targeted after surrendering, none of which, Gumi claims, were implemented.
Critics argue that meeting with bandits, advocating for concessions, and publicizing their grievances amounts to legitimizing criminal enterprise and sympathizing with individuals responsible for mass atrocities, undermining military efforts to restore order.
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