Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has stirred reactions after claiming that kidnappers and bandit groups in Nigeria adopted tactics similar to those used by notorious kidnap kingpin Chukwudumeme Onwuamadike, widely known as Evans.
Gumi made the statement on Friday through a Facebook post while reacting to reports about the discovery of illegal arms production sites in Vom, located in Jos South Local Government Area of Plateau State. Security operatives recently uncovered weapons and equipment allegedly linked to illegal firearm manufacturing in the area.
According to the cleric, Evans, who gained notoriety for abducting wealthy individuals and demanding huge ransoms before his arrest in 2017, became an example that other criminal gangs later followed.
Gumi stated that Evans was one of the most feared kidnappers in Nigeria, particularly in Lagos, adding that many criminal groups copied his style of operations after his arrest.
The cleric has repeatedly faced criticism over his views on insecurity and negotiations with armed groups. His previous comments urging dialogue with bandits have continued to generate public debate across the country.
