Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, a prominent and often controversial Islamic cleric from Kaduna, has drawn attention with his claim that the process of tracking down bandits in Nigeria is no different than finding anyone else you wish to meet.
In a recent interview with Punch, Gumi elaborated on his methods for locating these criminal groups, explaining that since the bandits are Nigerians, they can be traced through their family members and relatives. He suggested that this direct connection offers a viable avenue for negotiation and possibly resolving the crisis through peaceful means.
Gumi also emphasized that when bandits are approached in the role of negotiators or preachers, they often show a surprising level of openness, implying that they are willing to listen and engage in constructive dialogue.
He argued that by engaging in meaningful conversations, these criminals could be persuaded to abandon their illicit activities and embrace a more lawful way of life.
Gumi said, “People should not talk like that. This is unintelligent. For instance, if you are in Lagos or Ogun State and you have access to see people, do you ask how you have access to them? These people are Nigerians; we can trace them through their relatives and all that easily.
“When one approaches them as a negotiator or a preacher, they open their hearts. So, they can be approached and convinced. The question is: Why is the government not taking that course? Well, I can say the present government has learned from the legacy of the past.”
Gumi went on to express his belief that the government could make more substantial progress in addressing the bandit crisis if they adopted this strategy of dialogue and engagement. “The only thing I think is lacking here is that the talking is too much. If you stand on the right side, then we will get results,” he added.