Bandits Driven by Revenge but Open to Dialogue, Insists Sheikh Gumi, Contrasts with IPOB

Prominent Kaduna-based cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has once again defended bandits terrorizing northern Nigeria, stating they were motivated by a desire for revenge rather than sheer criminal intent.

In an interview on Trust TV, Gumi emphasized that while the killings carried out by these groups are “wrong and obnoxious,” they are largely reacting to perceived injustices and grievances, unlike the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), which he said is pursuing secession and refusing dialogue.

Gumi, a vocal advocate of amnesty and negotiation for bandits, urged the Nigerian government to engage these groups in peace talks, noting that they have shown willingness to listen.

He highlighted a past instance where a government delegation met over 5,000 bandits in the bush, who complained of losing family members and being victims of hostility.

The cleric drew a controversial comparison between bandits and IPOB, accusing the latter of rejecting dialogue and aiming to break away from Nigeria, branding them as secessionists and terrorists.

He reiterated that Fulani herdsmen and bandit groups have co-existed with other ethnic groups for centuries, suggesting their actions stem from retaliation for suffered injustices.

Gumi’s comments come amid heightened insecurity in Nigeria, with banditry and insurgency posing significant challenges. His remarks have sparked mixed reactions, underscoring the complexity of addressing Nigeria’s security crisis.