By Muhammad Mamman
Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has defended his long-standing approach of engaging bandits in dialogue, insisting that negotiation remains a viable strategy for restoring peace in conflict-affected parts of northern Nigeria. Speaking in response to mounting criticism following reports carried by Politics Nigeria, Gumi maintained that constructive engagement, rather than force alone, had yielded tangible results in the past.
According to the cleric, his mediation efforts contributed to the surrender of more than 600 armed bandits, many of whom he claimed laid down their weapons after assurance of fair treatment and reintegration. He argued that such outcomes demonstrate the potential of dialogue to complement security operations and reduce bloodshed.
Gumi criticised what he described as a narrow focus on military solutions, warning that sustained violence only deepens grievances and prolongs instability. He called on the government to adopt a multi-dimensional approach—combining security measures with negotiation, social rehabilitation, and economic support for communities devastated by years of conflict.
The cleric has repeatedly faced backlash for his controversial outreach to armed groups, with many Nigerians accusing him of enabling criminality or legitimising the actions of violent actors. However, Gumi insists that his interventions are guided by a desire to prevent further loss of life and to address the root causes of insecurity.
The government has not issued an official response to his latest remarks, but security analysts remain divided. Some view dialogue as a necessary, if uncomfortable, tool in complex conflicts, while others fear it risks emboldening perpetrators.
