RismadarVoice Reporters
June 21, 202
Prominent Islamic cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, has questioned calls for the immediate designation of certain armed groups as terrorists, arguing that their reported willingness to engage in dialogue should be taken into account in efforts to address insecurity in the country.
Gumi made the remarks amid ongoing debates over strategies to tackle banditry, kidnapping and other violent crimes, particularly in parts of northern Nigeria.
According to the cleric, the readiness of some armed groups to negotiate presents an opportunity for peaceful engagement that should not be overlooked.
“They have shown us their willingness to negotiate, why are we rushing to declare them as terrorists?” Gumi was quoted as saying.
The cleric, who has consistently advocated dialogue as part of a broader approach to resolving insecurity, maintained that some armed groups could be persuaded to abandon violence and embrace peace through constructive engagement rather than relying solely on military operations.
His comments have generated mixed reactions among Nigerians, reigniting discussions on the most effective approach to ending years of violence in affected communities.
Supporters of the dialogue approach argue that negotiations could help reduce bloodshed, secure the release of victims and encourage armed groups to lay down their weapons.
However, critics insist that individuals and groups involved in killings, kidnappings and other criminal activities should be treated as terrorists and subjected to the full weight of the law.
The debate comes as security agencies continue efforts to combat terrorism, banditry and kidnapping across several parts of the country through a combination of military operations, intelligence gathering and law enforcement actions.
While authorities have maintained pressure on criminal elements, discussions persist among stakeholders on whether dialogue should complement military measures in the search for lasting peace and security.
