Security agencies not synergising to end banditry – Gumi



A North-based Islamic cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, has said that banditry and insecurity ravaging the North can be eradicated if security agencies collaborate effectively. In an interview with ALABI ABDUL, the cleric speaks extensively on the recent peace deal brokered between the Kaduna state government and key bandit leaders, saying it has brought relative peace to the state.



How do you feel now that some of your suggestions on ending banditry are being implemented in Kaduna?

It is commendable. We have seen that banditry, especially in northern Nigeria, is closely tied to socioeconomic factors. Until these issues are addressed, the problem cannot be resolved. The crisis initially started as a conflict between farmers and herdsmen, but it escalated into ethnic clashes.


How would you assess the security situation in Kaduna now compared to the past?


The efforts by the Kaduna state government to sit with the bandits and negotiate for peace are commendable. We can already see positive results. I hope other states will take a cue from Kaduna by engaging with the bandits and bringing them to the table to achieve lasting peace.


One of the national dailies reported that after a meeting between key bandit leaders and government officials, one of the bandits involved in the negotiations was killed less than 48 hours later. What is your view on this?


That’s always the issue. It happened in Zamfara after a peace deal. For reasons unknown, the military often seems out of sync with the peace process. For instance, in Zamfara, a bandit leader who was given a traditional title to influence others was later killed. These actions make the bandits believe the government is deceiving them, leading to a vicious cycle of violence.


The president must take charge and instruct the military to align with peace efforts. The government should not take sides. If it does, it risks escalating the conflict. The crimes committed against the bandits must also be acknowledged.

Take the Tudun Biri incident, where many people were killed, or other bombardments in the bush. Bandits have told us they’ve lost women and children to airstrikes. Do you fight a civil war by bombing? In civilised nations, conflicts aren’t resolved this way. Look at IPOB or Niger Delta militants. Are they bombed? Why is it different here?


Do you think security agencies are working in synergy regarding peace deals with the bandits?

No; they are not in synergy, and some are not even interested in these deals. They perceive negotiations as a defeat, which is wrong. Negotiation is the best way forward. After all, the Nigerian Civil War ended with “no victor, no vanquished.” Crimes committed during the war were forgiven, and reconciliation followed. We can apply the same principle here.


The Buhari and el-Rufai administrations refused to negotiate with bandits. Now, Governor Uba Sani has taken the opposite approach. What’s your take on that?


The new government’s approach is yielding results. In Birnin Gwari, markets have reopened, roads are safer, and there’s relative peace. You can investigate for yourself. The recent agreement in Chikun is another example, but unfortunately, issues like the killing of negotiators disrupt the peace process.


In Zamfara and Sokoto, where Bello Turji continues to wreak havoc, do you think a truce would work?


Yes; Turji has said he’s ready for peace. I met him face-to-face. He claims he’s only retaliating because his people are being killed and arrested.

If the government extends an olive branch to Turji, will he stop the attacks?


Yes; in the past, when peace deals were made, there were no attacks for seven months. However, once the agreements were broken, the violence resumed. These bandits are herdsmen and largely uneducated. You must engage them at their level, pacify them, and provide education, schools, and healthcare. Only then will they put down their weapons.


What about bandits who refuse to disarm despite peace efforts?


It’s straightforward. Just like Tompolo and Asari Dokubo handle the creeks, local leaders who know these communities can deal with troublemakers more effectively than the military. The military often cannot distinguish between criminals and innocent civilians, but local leaders can.


President Bola Tinubu has not made an open statement on negotiations with bandits. What’s your view?


The president doesn’t need to make a statement. His actions show he’s open to negotiation. We’ve seen high-ranking officials involved in these talks.


Should other states adopt the Kaduna approach?


Yes; states like Zamfara and Katsina should follow Kaduna’s example. Guerrilla warfare is difficult to win, especially with vast ungoverned areas. The government should complement its efforts with treaties and agreements to maintain peace.


What’s your response to those who think negotiating with bandits is a sign of weakness?

Negotiating isn’t weakness; it’s strength. The U.S. negotiates with the Taliban, and Israel negotiates with Hamas. Negotiation reduces bloodshed and chaos. It’s about strength, not submission.


The Niger Republic recently accused Nigeria of collaborating with France to destroy their country. What’s your reaction to this?


There’s a principle that says, “Never allow your neighbour to become your enemy,” because your real enemy will hide in their territory. We mishandled the Niger coup by showing hostility, such as cutting off electricity. Democracy isn’t mandatory. It’s their choice.

The Niger president’s claim is likely a strategic move to create confusion. During the Nigerian Civil War, France sided with Biafra. We should be wary of France’s sudden friendship with Nigeria after being expelled from Niger.


Are you suggesting caution regarding France’s intentions?



Yes; a former enemy who suddenly becomes your friend requires scrutiny. We must remain vigilant and conscious of France’s actions in the region. This version ensures grammatical correctness, better sentence flow, and clarity. Let me know if you need further adjustments.