Prominent Islamic scholar Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has expressed his eagerness to volunteer in negotiations with bandits, aiming to restore peace within the nation, News About Nigeria reports.
In an interview with Trust TV, Sheikh Gumi stated that if requested by President Bola Tinubu, he would willingly engage in the process.
While Sheikh Gumi made it clear that he did not necessarily aspire to lead the negotiations, he expressed his willingness to be part of any group approved by the government and entrusted with the responsibility of handling the talks.
Highlighting the importance of a comprehensive approach, Sheikh Gumi stressed the need for collaboration among scholars, emirs, and professors in order to effectively restore peace to the affected regions.
“I am not seeking to assume leadership, but I am prepared to offer my services as part of the initiative. Leadership is not the focus here; rather, it is about implementing a comprehensive strategy that addresses the root causes of the issue,” Sheikh Gumi articulated.
He further emphasized the involvement of emirs, scholars, and university professors who have extensively researched these matters.
Sheikh Gumi proposed a collective gathering to facilitate peace and enable individuals to resume their agricultural activities.
Sheikh Gumi expressed his support for the recent call by former Zamfara state governor Senator Sani Yarima to negotiate with bandits, suggesting that they should be granted amnesty, similar to how former militants in the Niger Delta were handled.
Additionally, Sheikh Gumi applauded the appointment of Nuhu Ribadu as the National Security Adviser, but he expressed his hope that Ribadu would not merely serve as a symbolic figure in the position.
Drawing attention to the lack of cooperation among security agencies, Sheikh Gumi identified it as a major obstacle to effectively combatting insecurity in the country.
Moreover, he voiced his disappointment regarding the retirement of more than 100 Army Generals, considering the substantial resources invested in their training and development.
Sheikh Gumi urged politicians to refrain from politicizing the military and judiciary, recognizing the crucial roles they play in the nation’s stability and security.
