Sheikh Ahmad Gumi dismisses claims linking politicians to the rising banditry in northern Nigeria, attributing the violence to historical neglect and lack of education. He emphasizes that these actions are a natural response from marginalized communities seeking change and awareness in a world influenced by the internet
Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, a prominent Islamic cleric from Kaduna, has rejected claims that politicians are behind the increasing banditry and violence in northern Nigeria. In recent months, the North-West region has witnessed a surge in banditry, leading to numerous fatalities, including the monarch of Gobir in Sokoto State. Amid this unrest, allegations have emerged suggesting that some politicians may be financing the violence for political gain.
In response to these allegations, Gumi, speaking in an interview with Punch, firmly denied the existence of evidence linking politicians to the ongoing violence. He described such claims as "unintelligent," asserting that the people involved in banditry are not being sponsored by any political factions. Gumi emphasized that the root cause of the banditry stems from historical neglect and a lack of education among the affected populations.
"This is a natural reaction of people neglected for centuries without education," Gumi stated. He noted that these individuals, now exposed to the wider world through the internet, are increasingly aware of their deprivation and seek to fight back against their circumstances. According to Gumi, the actions of these groups are not orchestrated by external influences but rather stem from their long-standing grievances. His remarks highlight the complex social dynamics contributing to the ongoing insecurity in the region.
