By Muhammad Mamman
A prominent Islamic cleric in Nigeria, Ahmad Gumi, has alleged that the government is aware of the identities and locations of terrorists operating in the country, sparking renewed debate over the state’s strategy in tackling insecurity.
In a video circulating widely on social media, Gumi claimed that authorities possess detailed knowledge about the individuals behind violent attacks but have yet to take decisive action against them.
“The government knows them. They know where they are and who they are,” Gumi said in the video, suggesting that the challenge lies not in intelligence gathering but in the political will to act.
Nigeria has battled a complex security crisis for more than a decade, particularly in the north, where armed groups linked to Boko Haram and its offshoot, the Islamic State West Africa Province, have carried out deadly attacks on civilians, security forces and infrastructure.
The conflict has killed tens of thousands of people and displaced millions across the region, according to humanitarian agencies.
Gumi, who has previously been involved in controversial mediation efforts with armed groups in northwestern Nigeria, argued that dialogue and understanding the motivations of fighters could help reduce violence. His past engagements with bandit groups have drawn both support and criticism from the public and security analysts.
Nigerian authorities have not formally responded to the cleric’s latest remarks. However, officials have repeatedly maintained that the military and intelligence agencies are actively pursuing insurgent leaders and dismantling their networks.
Under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the government has pledged to intensify security operations and improve intelligence coordination to confront armed groups across the country.
Security experts say claims such as Gumi’s highlight growing public frustration over persistent attacks and the slow pace of restoring safety in affected communities.
Nigeria’s security forces continue to conduct operations in several states as part of broader efforts to curb insurgency, banditry and kidnappings that have plagued large parts of the country.
