The Kaduna-based Islamic cleric, Ahmad Gumi, has urged the federal government to consider granting amnesty to armed bandits.
Speaking during a press conference at his Kaduna residence on Monday, Gumi said the government should adopt the same rehabilitation strategy used for repentant Boko Haram members who surrendered to the military.
The cleric argued that Nigeria’s heavy reliance on military operations over the past 17 years has failed to end insurgency and banditry across the country.
“If the kinetic approach is not working for 17 years, why don’t you change the approach? Let’s change the method,” Gumi said.
”Because what Katsina did is to bring the bandits, give them money, and let them go with the rebels. Why don’t we change the method? Let’s engage them.
“Let’s dislodge them from the forest. Let’s take their children and put them in school. Let’s do something different. But you see, when you want money to be spent, when you want a budget to be spent, that is when it will come.”
Gumi maintained that authorities have not given enough attention to rehabilitation and reintegration efforts despite the number of insurgents who have surrendered over the years.
According to him, some bandits have indicated willingness to surrender their weapons if they are guaranteed protection against arrest or revenge attacks.
“These people (bandits) told us they are ready to lay down their arms, but what are their conditions? Has anybody listened to them?” Gumi asked.
“They said they fear when they lay down arms, they will then be pursued and arrested.
“So give them the amnesty so that they don’t need to fear putting down their arms and see. Let’s change the approach. Let’s change the methodology.”
The Islamic scholar also dismissed claims linking him to support for terrorism or violent groups.
“I hereby state unequivocally that any video clip, written statement, or message attributed to me, whether directly or by innuendo, suggesting support for, justification of, protection of, or advocacy for banditry or terrorism in Nigeria or anywhere else does not emanate from me,” he said.
Gumi further expressed hope that Nigeria would eventually overcome its security challenges through collective efforts and sustainable solutions.
“I sincerely hope that our great nation will heal, and that all victims affected by this violence will find comfort in the collective determination of the nation and the international community to achieve a lasting solution to the insecurity fueled over time by ignorance, poverty, and widespread social injustice,” he added.