“Engagement Is the Only Way Out” — Sheikh Gumi Speaks on Insecurity
Islamic cleric Ahmad Gumi has maintained that engaging underprivileged and violent groups is the most effective way to address Nigeria’s insecurity.
In a Facebook post, Gumi blamed decades of neglect and widening inequality for making many youths vulnerable to recruitment into violence, describing them as “ready-made foot soldiers” for destabilising forces.
He criticised the political class for inaction and said the intellectual community is largely preoccupied with survival.
Reflecting on his past efforts, Gumi noted that he tried to reintegrate violent elements in 2021, insisting that such an approach remains the best solution, if backed by strong political will
He wrote: “Nigeria for decades has ignored the underprivileged section of its society. There is a significant socio-economic discrepancy, and the society is stratified. This makes our teaming youth ready-made foot soldiers for any foreign interest trying to divide us and rule. To plunder our resources while we are involved in a vicious circle of violence.
”Unfortunately, the political class is unattentive while the intelligentsia is held hostage in the struggle for existence.
“In 2021, I took the bull by the horns in an attempt to bring some of these uncouth elements back to our fold rather than letting them be exploited by the devil.
“I still believe this is the only way out of our predicament. However, it needs the political will and determination to achieve.
“May Allah bring peace back to our nation
