Northern Elders Urges President Tinubu To Allow Sheikh Gumi Negotiate With Bandits

The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) has thrown its weight behind the initiative of Kaduna-based Muslim cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, to negotiate with bandits.

The NEF urged President Bola Tinubu to allow Sheikh Gumi hold discussions with the bandits who abducted 287 schoolchildren from Kuriga Government Secondary and LEA Primary Schools in the Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

The forum expressed optimism that Gumi’s engagement could potentially secure the release of the abducted children and forestall future incidents of abduction.

KanyiDaily recalls that bandits recently abducted about 287 pupils and teachers from the two schools in Kaduna.

In a bid to secure their release, Sheikh Gumi had urged President Tinubu to grant him permission to negotiate with the bandits.

He warned Tinubu against repeating the perceived mistake made by former President Muhammadu Buhari, who refused to engage in dialogue with the bandits.

However, the Federal Government has stated its firm stance against paying any ransom for the release of abducted schoolchildren, asserting that they will be rescued safely.

Reacting in an interview with Saturday PUNCH, NEF’s Spokesman, Abdul-Azeez Suleiman emphasized the need to support Gumi’s efforts in seeking a peaceful resolution to the crisis in Kaduna.

He highlighted the potential benefits of dialogue with bandits, stressing that it does not equate to condoning their actions or granting them impunity.

However, according to him, it serves as a strategic approach to de-escalate the situation and safeguard the lives of the victims.

Suleiman “While some may question the legitimacy of negotiating with criminals, it is important to consider the potential benefits of engaging in dialogue.

“In conflict resolution, dialogue is often seen as crucial to finding peaceful solutions.

“By engaging with the bandits, Gumi may be able to understand their grievances and motivations, which could potentially lead to the safe release of the abducted children.

“Additionally, opening lines of communication with the bandits could pave the way for addressing underlying issues such as poverty, lack of education, and marginalisation that contribute to the cycle of violence.

“Moreover, pursuing a dialogue with the bandits does not necessarily mean condoning their actions or granting them impunity. It is a strategic move to de-escalate the situation and protect the lives of innocent victims.

“By initiating talks, Gumi may be able to secure the release of the schoolchildren and potentially prevent future abductions.

“While dialogue with bandits may seem controversial, it can be a necessary step in resolving conflicts and ensuring the safety of hostages; Gumi’s intention to engage in dialogue should be supported as a means to bring about a peaceful resolution to the crisis in Kaduna.”

KanyiDaily recalls that in 2012, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi distanced himself from bandits following their declaration as terrorists by the Federal High Court in Abuja.