Prominent Islamic scholar Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has reiterated that Nigeria's armed bandit groups are motivated by revenge and perceived injustice, not by a desire to break away from the country like the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). Speaking during an interview on Trust TV, Gumi emphasized that many of the herders-turned-bandits are responding to years of violence, neglect, and displacement that have destroyed their communities.
According to Sheikh Gumi, most of the bandits he has engaged with describe their actions as retaliation for past killings and oppression. He stressed that while their violent methods remain condemnable, understanding their grievances is essential for lasting peace. "Many of them lost parents and relatives in previous conflicts. They see their attacks as revenge, not rebellion," Gumi said, adding that the Fulani have coexisted peacefully with other tribes for generations.
The cleric, known for his mediation efforts, called for a national policy of reconciliation and rehabilitation. He argued that Nigeria's heavy reliance on military operations has deepened resentment and widened the cycle of violence. Instead, he urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to adopt dialogue-based strategies that could help heal divisions and rebuild trust among affected communities.
"It is wrong to kill anyone unjustly," he stated, "but the psychology behind these acts must be studied and addressed with fairness." Gumi believes that a genuine peace offer would be welcomed by many of the armed groups if handled sincerely by government authorities.
Contrasting their motives with IPOB's secessionist agenda, Gumi maintained that the bandits are open to negotiation and national unity. "Unlike IPOB, who reject dialogue and pursue separation, these groups want peace," he said.
His remarks continue to stir national debate, with citizens divided between supporting his call for dialogue and demanding stricter punishment for violent offenders.Source: