Islamic scholar Abubakar Gumi has claimed that the Nigerian government is fully aware of the identities and locations of terrorists and bandits operating across the country.
Gumi made the remarks during a recent interview with DRTV, which began trending on Tuesday, while responding to allegations that he personally interacts with armed groups responsible for insecurity in parts of Nigeria. Critics have accused him of often speaking on behalf of these groups.
In his response, Gumi stressed that his engagements with terrorists and bandits are never conducted alone, and that security agencies are always involved.
“The government knows every terrorist by name and by location. I don’t go alone to negotiate I go with the police and other security agencies,” he said.
He added that some of these efforts have included visits to traditional rulers as well as trips into forests believed to be hideouts for armed groups.
“I would go to the Emirs. In fact, when we went to one forest, I even went with women into the bush,” Gumi said.
Gumi has previously participated in controversial dialogue initiatives with armed groups in northern Nigeria, asserting that negotiation can help reduce violence and persuade fighters to lay down their arms.
His comments underscore the delicate balance between negotiation and security operations in efforts to tackle banditry and terrorism in the country.
ELIJAH ADEYEMI
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