By Muhammad Mamman
Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has stirred widespread controversy after stating that the abduction of schoolchildren, while unacceptable, is a “lesser evil” compared with the killing of soldiers by armed groups during attacks.
Gumi made the comment during a recent discussion on Nigeria’s worsening insecurity, arguing that although kidnapping is a grave offence, the killing of security personnel poses a greater threat to national stability.
According to the cleric, armed groups often resort to kidnapping as a bargaining tactic when confronting the state, whereas direct attacks on soldiers escalate violence and deepen the cycle of conflict. He insisted that acknowledging the varying degrees of wrongdoing does not equate to endorsing criminality.
His remarks have triggered strong criticism from security analysts, civil society organisations and parents, who described the statement as insensitive and dangerous, especially at a time when student abductions remain a traumatic reality in parts of the country.
Many argued that such comments could embolden criminal networks responsible for mass kidnappings, including those targeting schoolchildren in northern Nigeria.
Despite the backlash, Gumi maintained that his position is based on pragmatism and an understanding of the dynamics between armed groups and the state. He reiterated that both kidnapping and the killing of soldiers are condemnable, but insisted that policymakers must prioritise solutions that reduce fatalities.
The federal government has yet to issue an official response, but security experts continue to warn that any narrative appearing to rationalise kidnapping could undermine ongoing efforts to combat banditry and restore public confidence.
