Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has said Nigeria’s military alone cannot end the country’s banditry crisis, stressing that dialogue with affected communities is the only practical solution.
Speaking in an exclusive BBC interview, Gumi argued that guerrilla-style fighters are difficult for any army to defeat and that local politics, government involvement, and community support are crucial in resolving such conflicts.
Gumi, who has faced criticism for allegedly supporting armed groups, denied any contact with bandits since 2021, after they were officially designated as terrorist organisations by the federal government.
He explained that engaging with non-state actors is a globally accepted method to reduce violence, pointing out examples such as America’s negotiations with the Taliban.
He also described the armed groups as primarily Fulani herders engaged in an “existential war” over land and grazing rights, which has escalated into widespread criminal activity.
Gumi urged that understanding these underlying causes and seeking dialogue is more effective than relying solely on military action to restore security.
