Gumi Advocates Amnesty for Bandits to Combat Terrorism

Ahmad Gumi, an Islamic leader, suggested that the Nigerian government should change its approach to addressing banditry by offering amnesty to bandits, akin to the strategy employed for repentant Boko Haram members. During a press conference held at his home in Kaduna, Gumi emphasized that the current military methods have not effectively reduced banditry over the past 17 years.

He proposed that the government should engage with bandits, provide financial incentives for them to abandon their activities, and facilitate their reintegration into society. Gumi expressed concern that bandits are willing to lay down their weapons if they are assured of safety and protection from retaliation.

He criticized the government for not focusing enough on plans to rehabilitate former insurgents and called for a shift in strategy to address the ongoing violence and insecurity in Nigeria.