Kaduna-based Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmad Abubakar Gumi has alleged that the President Bola Tinubu-led Nigerian government has full knowledge of all terrorists operating in the country, including their names and locations. He made the claim during a television interview with DRtv while defending his meetings with various armed groups, emphasizing that he never visits them alone and always coordinates with security officials and local traditional leaders.
Gumi pointed to a surge in coordinated attacks across Nigeria, which he claims are supported by major foreign powers. Speaking in a separate BBC Hausa interview, he suggested that the escalation of violence after months of relative calm indicates the involvement of external actors with the resources to destabilize the country.
The cleric highlighted the Abuja–Kaduna highway and Birnin Gwari as examples of areas previously safer that have recently experienced renewed attacks. He linked the resurgence of violence to international discussions and alleged interference, arguing that the timing of attacks often coincides with accusations against Nigeria to reinforce certain narratives.
Addressing criticism of his advocacy for dialogue with bandits, Gumi stressed that the root causes of insurgency are often overlooked. He described many perpetrators as acting out of ignorance or misguidance, and argued that previous administrations failed to support his efforts to dissuade armed groups from kidnapping and theft, which, he claimed, could have mitigated the crisis.
Gumi insisted that his engagement with armed groups is driven by religious principles and conflict-resolution motives, not sympathy for criminals. He emphasized that his efforts aim to prevent oppression and restore peace, framing his interventions as a religious obligation to guide misguided individuals back to lawful and ethical conduct.
