Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has denied supporting bandits, saying he's only involved in peace efforts. He's called for amnesty and dialogue to resolve the crisis in northern Nigeria, emphasizing that peace is sweeter than war. Gumi has been engaging with armed groups, saying his role is humanitarian and conflict-resolution-based. He's also criticized foreign interference, stating that Nigeria must resolve its security problems internally.
Gumi explained that his visits to bandit camps were with government knowledge and invitation, aimed at negotiating peace. He stressed that military force alone won't end the conflict, citing lack of air support and drones as major issues. The cleric also dismissed claims of a Christian-Muslim war in Nigeria, calling it a misleading narrative.
He highlighted the importance of showing fighters the value of peace, education, and better life, saying their brutality is a sign of weakness. Gumi maintained that terrorist activities in Nigeria involve foreign interests, with Boko Haram receiving international support, while bandits have more rudimentary weapons.
