Kaduna-based Islamic cleric Sheik Ahmad Gumi has again called on the Federal Government to grant amnesty to armed bandits. He urged the government to adopt the same rehabilitation approach used for repentant Boko Haram members who surrendered to the military.
Press Conference Remarks
Gumi made the call during a press conference at his residence on Monday, May 25. He questioned the effectiveness of the kinetic approach, stating, “If the kinetic approach is not working for 17 years, why don’t you change the approach? Let’s change the method.”
He criticized the approach used in Katsina, where bandits were given money and allowed to go free with rebels. Instead, he proposed engaging the bandits, dislodging them from the forest, and enrolling their children in schools. He added, “Let’s do something different. But you see, when you want money to be spent, when you want a budget to be spent, that is when it will come.”
Bandits' Willingness to Surrender
According to Gumi, some bandits have expressed willingness to lay down their arms if guaranteed protection from arrest or retaliation. He stated, “These people (bandits) told us they are ready to lay down their arms, but what are their conditions? Has anybody listened to them? They said they fear when they lay down arms, they will then be pursued and arrested. So give them the amnesty so that they don’t need to fear putting down their arms and see. Let’s change the approach. Let’s change the methodology.”
Denial of Allegations
The cleric also used the briefing to deny allegations that he supports terrorism or violent groups. He said, “I hereby state unequivocally that any video clip, written statement, or message attributed to me, whether directly or by innuendo, suggesting support for, justification or protection of, or advocacy for banditry or terrorism in Nigeria or anywhere else does not emanate from me.”
This call for amnesty comes amid ongoing security challenges in the country, with banditry and kidnapping for ransom prevalent in several states.
