Islamic Cleric Sheikh Gumi Rejects Arrest Calls, Defends Peace Talks with Bandits Despite Public Outcry and Criticism

 

Renowned Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has strongly refuted calls for his arrest, dismissing critics as motivated by ignorance, intolerance, and political bias. Speaking through a statement shared on Facebook, the cleric described the demands for his detention as the reaction of “spineless, irresponsible and unpatriotic imbecilic people” who prefer sensationalism over truth.

Sheikh Gumi emphasized that his engagement with bandits across various troubled regions was part of a legitimate effort to curb violence and promote peace. He argued that his interactions with armed criminals, far from being a criminal act, were aimed at securing the safety of communities frequently targeted by kidnappers and raiders.

Critics, he noted, have chosen to politicize his peace interventions rather than address the growing insecurity in Nigeria. The cleric expressed disappointment at those who, instead of reflecting on the worsening security situation, focus solely on denouncing his methods. He maintained that his dialogue initiatives were transparent and conducted under the approval and supervision of law enforcement authorities.

Recalling one of his significant interventions, Sheikh Gumi highlighted a major operation in January 2021 at Sabon Garin Yadi forest, located in Giwa Local Government Area of Kaduna State. The mission involved more than 600 armed bandits and their commanders, and was carried out with full knowledge of the then Kaduna State Commissioner of Police, who represented the Inspector-General of Police.

During this engagement, the cleric and his team reportedly negotiated with the armed elements to encourage them to surrender their weapons in exchange for security guarantees and access to basic amenities. Sheikh Gumi insisted that the initiative was part of a broader peace strategy, aimed at reducing attacks on local communities and fostering dialogue between security agencies and criminal groups.

He criticized the loudest voices calling for his arrest, suggesting that their outcry is fueled by personal prejudice and an unwillingness to tolerate differing viewpoints. According to him, such critics focus on controversy rather than solutions, undermining efforts to restore safety and stability to vulnerable regions.

The cleric’s statement reiterated his commitment to engaging with all stakeholders, including security officials and local communities, to foster peace. He insisted that his work is guided by a sincere desire to end violence, not by any intent to break the law. Sheikh Gumi challenged detractors to prioritize the pressing issue of insecurity over political posturing and public outrage.

Through this defense, Sheikh Gumi positioned himself as a mediator and advocate for dialogue, emphasizing that peace-building sometimes requires unconventional approaches. He urged Nigerians to consider the tangible results of his interventions, rather than succumb to emotion-driven condemnation.