KADUNA, Nigeria — Controversial Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has expressed concern over the Nigerian government’s approach to tackling banditry, arguing that the designation of armed groups as terrorists has significantly reduced opportunities for dialogue and peaceful resolution.

Speaking in a video that has circulated widely on social media, Gumi lamented what he described as the closure of negotiation channels between religious leaders and armed groups operating in parts of northern Nigeria.

According to the cleric, dialogue remains an important tool in addressing insecurity, and abandoning that option could worsen the security situation.

Gumi stated that some armed groups had previously shown willingness to engage in discussions aimed at ending violence. He questioned the decision to formally classify bandits as terrorists, suggesting that such actions may complicate future peace efforts.

He argued that individuals or groups willing to negotiate should be given the opportunity to pursue peaceful settlements rather than being completely isolated from engagement efforts.

The cleric maintained that religious leaders had, in the past, played a role in facilitating communication between authorities and armed groups. However, he claimed that the current security framework has effectively prevented such interventions.

According to Gumi, clerics who previously sought to encourage dialogue can no longer carry out those efforts because of the legal and security implications surrounding engagement with groups now designated as terrorists.

He further claimed that some bandit groups had previously assisted security authorities by handing over members of insurgent organizations operating in the region. While emphasizing the complexity of the security challenge, he warned that continued military confrontation without parallel dialogue efforts could deepen the crisis.

Gumi’s comments are likely to reignite debate over the government’s strategy in addressing banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism across northern Nigeria. Security experts and government officials have consistently defended the classification of violent groups as terrorists, arguing that stronger measures are necessary to curb attacks on civilians and security personnel.

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The remarks come at a time when Nigeria continues to battle widespread insecurity in several states, with authorities intensifying military operations against armed groups accused of mass abductions, killings, and attacks on communities.

Successive administrations have adopted a combination of military action, intelligence gathering, and community engagement to address the challenge. However, opinions remain divided over whether negotiations should continue to play a role in resolving the conflict.

While some stakeholders believe dialogue can encourage surrender and reintegration, others argue that negotiations may embolden criminal groups and undermine law enforcement efforts.

Meanwhile, Gumi recently addressed criticism surrounding a visit he made to Ibadan, Oyo State, last year. Responding to allegations that the trip was linked to political or religious agendas, the cleric dismissed the claims and insisted that no individual or organization could prevent him from visiting any part of Nigeria.

He explained that his visit was not connected to political activities and stated that he attended the event as a representative of northern Islamic scholars rather than at the invitation of any South-West Muslim group.

As discussions continue over the best approach to tackling insecurity, Gumi’s latest comments have once again placed him at the center of a national conversation on peace, security, and the future of conflict resolution efforts in Nigeria.