Sheikh Ahmad Gumi Denies Recent Contact with Bandits, Maintains Negotiation as Best Option
Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has denied claims that he has engaged with bandit groups since 2021, following the Nigerian government’s declaration of these groups as terrorist organizations.
In an exclusive interview, Gumi addressed questions about his interactions with bandits, his role as a mediator, and his perspective on Nigeria’s ongoing security challenges. He reiterated his long-held view that Nigeria’s modern military cannot defeat the bandits and that dialogue remains the most effective way forward.
For years, Sheikh Gumi, a medical doctor and former military officer, has advocated for non-violent solutions to the banditry crisis. His efforts to engage with bandits have made him a controversial figure, often described by critics as a “bandit sympathizer” or spokesperson.
Speaking to BBC, Gumi said:
“When they say we don’t negotiate with terrorists, I don’t know where they got that from. It’s neither in the Bible nor the Quran. Negotiation is a global practice. The US had an office negotiating with the Taliban in Qatar. Everyone negotiates with non-state actors. We negotiate for peace and strategic interests to stop the bloodshed.”
During the interview, Gumi spoke about his last engagement with bandits, their motivations, and why he believes Nigerian authorities alone cannot end the crisis.
Military Cannot Fully End Banditry
Gumi emphasized that while Nigeria’s military is strong and capable, it cannot solve the country’s insecurity alone. He noted that President Bola Tinubu recently implemented changes in military leadership and declared a nationwide security emergency to tackle the escalating crisis.
“The military plays a vital role, but civil unrest and criminality are only 25% kinetic. The rest involves governance, politics, and local communities. The military cannot do everything,” Gumi explained.
“Where have you seen the military win a guerrilla war alone?”
Last Contact with Bandits Was in 2021
Responding to criticisms that his engagement emboldens bandits, Gumi clarified that his direct contact with them ended in 2021.
“At the peak of my interactions, I always coordinated with authorities, including the police, local officials, and the press. I never acted alone. But the federal government at that time declared them terrorists, and since then, I have disengaged completely,” he said.
Kidnapping vs. Violence Against Soldiers
Gumi has previously sparked controversy by describing the kidnapping of school children as a “lesser evil” compared to killing soldiers, arguing that negotiations can save lives.
Asked whether he still holds that view in light of recent kidnappings in Kebbi and Niger States, he said:
“Partly it is correct and partly not. Kidnapping children is certainly lesser than killing soldiers, but all acts of violence are evil. They differ only in degree.”
Bandits as Fulani Herdsmen Fighting for Survival
On the nature of banditry, Gumi noted that the crisis has evolved from localized farmer-herder conflicts to a widespread security threat. He described many bandits terrorizing the Northwest and other regions as Fulani herdsmen fighting what he calls an “existential war” to preserve their livelihoods.
“Their existence depends on cattle rearing, which has been their way of life for generations. They know where to graze and how to care for their cattle. This is their life, and they are fighting to protect it,” he explained.
