The Nigerian government has invited Islamic cleric Ahmad Gumi for questioning regarding his recent comments on the activities of bandits within the country.
The invitation comes after Gumi made statements urging the government to negotiate with bandits, which has stirred significant controversy and raised concerns regarding national security and the government’s approach to tackling insurgency.
Minister of Information and Orientation Mohammed Idris addressed journalists at the State House in Abuja today, disclosing the government’s decision to question Gumi.
He emphasised that no individual, regardless of status, is above the law, and Gumi must be held accountable for his statements.
Gumi’s call for dialogue with bandits, particularly urging the government to avoid repeating what he described as mistakes made by past administrations, has sparked widespread debate.
He stressed the need for proactive engagement to address the root cause of terrorism, highlighting that the financing of terrorism stems from the ransom payments made by victims of kidnapping.
The cleric’s remarks have drawn criticism from various quarters expressing scepticism about the effectiveness of negotiating with criminal elements.
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