How I Led 600 Bandits to Surrender – Gumi Defends Peace Efforts
Popular Islamic cleric Sheikh Gumi has defended his controversial peace efforts with bandits, revealing he played a pivotal role in causing over 600 armed bandits and their commanders to surrender in Sabon Garin Yadi forest, Kaduna State. Speaking in a recent statement, Gumi described his mediation—accompanied by the then Kaduna State Commissioner of Police in January 2021—as a successful intervention aimed at de-escalating violence and promoting dialogue. Gumi claimed the meeting persuaded the militants to lay down arms in exchange for security and basic amenities, but also criticised the government for failing to honour its part of the agreement. According to Gumi, the missed opportunity led to renewed violence, as none of the bandits’ conditions were fulfilled. He dismissed calls for his arrest as misguided, insisting that mediation and open dialogue remain essential tools for peace. Gumi cautioned Nigerians against […]