The Digest:
Controversial Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has reiterated his stance that negotiating with bandits is a necessary and morally permissible strategy to prevent greater bloodshed, stating that such engagement is “not forbidden in the Bible or the Quran.” In a BBC interview, Gumi described kidnapping as a “lesser evil” compared to killing soldiers and argued that dialogue remains essential despite the official designation of bandit groups as terrorists.
Key Points:
- Sheikh Gumi defended negotiation as a practical tool to stop violence and save lives
- He stated that the principle “we don’t negotiate” is not supported by scripture or practice
- Gumi described kidnapping as a “lesser evil” compared to the killing of security personnel
- He revealed his last direct meetings with bandits were in 2021, conducted openly with authorities
- The cleric argued that Nigeria’s military cannot solve insecurity through kinetic means alone
- He distinguished between Fulani herdsmen bandits and urban Fulani, citing an “existential war” over cattle and survival
- Gumi insisted his past mediation efforts had government awareness but lacked political will
Sources: BBC Interview, Nigerian Tribune
