Controversial Kaduna-based Islamic cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, has once again waded into Nigeria’s worsening security crisis, cautioning security agencies against provoking armed groups in Katsina State after a peace deal was struck between terrorists and residents of Faskari Local Government Area.
In a Facebook post, Gumi warned that any attempt to attack the armed groups could reignite violence in the state.
“Some people who don’t want peace, will provoke them again by attacking them. It’s very important to educate them that they are used by capitalising on their ignorance and zeal to vengeance,” Gumi wrote.
His comments come on the heels of a peace meeting held on Sunday in Faskari between residents, local traditional leaders, and a wanted bandit kingpin, Ado Alero, alongside dozens of armed herders.
A video making the rounds show participants, several of who are armed with rifles and belt ammunition, openly engaging in dialogue with community leaders.
During the meeting, Alero admitted that past hostilities with security operatives worsened after one of his followers was arrested without explanation despite appeals to local and state authorities.
“What brought about this meeting is that one of my boys was arrested. At that time, we were not on good terms with the security operatives. I asked why they arrested him, but they did not give me any explanation,” he said.
He added that despite contacting the Secretary to the Katsina State Government and the then-chairman of Miyetti Allah before his death, no resolution was reached.
“I made inquiries from the Faskari Local Government up to the state government. I spoke with the Secretary to the Katsina State Governor, and I also spoke with the then Chairman of Miyetti Allah before he died,” he said.
“We followed due process at the time, but we were unable to secure his release. They never told us why he was arrested, and from there, I left the matter.”
