Prominent Islamic scholar Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has indicated that religious leaders are effectively withdrawing from negotiations with armed bandit groups. Gumi expressed significant disagreement with the Nigerian government’s recent move to officially classify these criminal factions as terrorists.
In a widely circulated video, Gumi warned that labeling these groups as terrorists may escalate violence beyond current levels. He argued that these individuals had previously expressed an openness to dialogue, questioning why the government chose to label them as terrorists instead of pursuing peaceful resolutions. The cleric expressed concern that the government’s militaristic approach aims to justify the use of newly acquired weaponry.
Highlighting the shifting security landscape, Gumi noted that previous efforts to collaborate with local authorities have been undermined by these new designations. He concluded by declaring that the final avenue for communication—negotiation led by clergy—has now been permanently shut down.