‘We discussed how to curb banditry’ — Gumi speaks on meeting with security agencies

“Last night I got many frantic calls from well-wishers and
journalists about a news item that I was interviewed by security. There is
absolutely no cause for alarm,” he wrote.

“Yes, we had a productive interaction on how to curb
banditry as we are all trying — each in his own sphere — to tackle the monster
bedevilling the nation. There was no animosity but courtesy and full of
respect.

 “We all need as a
nation to unite and work in synergy to achieve an everlasting peace.”

BACKGROUND

In recent years, Gumi has been advocating for amnesty for
bandits.

The cleric has been photographed with various bandit groups
on numerous occasions.

He maintains that many took to banditry because of alleged
neglect and marginalisation from government.

Some Nigerians have called on security agencies to arrest
the cleric over what they described as his alleged ties with terrorist groups.

Last week, the federal government named Tukur Mamu, Gumi’s
associate, among persons linked with terrorism financing.

In his response, Gumi had said only a court of competent
jurisdiction can so tag Mamu, adding that terrorists finance themselves from
ransoms.