In a bold move to secure the release of abducted citizens, prominent Islamic scholar Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has offered to facilitate constructive talks between the Federal Government and bandits.
Sheikh Gumi cautioned against repeating the error made by former President Muhammadu Buhari, who declined to engage in dialogue with bandits.
His remarks came in response to the Kaduna State government’s refusal to negotiate with the bandits responsible for the abduction of 287 students from Kuriga Government Secondary and LEA Primary Schools in Chikun Local Government Area.
The recent incident involved the abduction of over 280 students from Kuriga primary school, prompting Sheikh Gumi to call for urgent action.
In a statement, Sheikh Gumi expressed his dismay over the government’s stance of not negotiating with bandits, deeming it an unfortunate position. He emphasized the need for dialogue, not only for the Kuriga school children but also for all similar cases.
He further urged the government to employ the same successful approach used in the past, such as the release of passengers abducted on the Abuja – Kaduna train in 2022, to secure the freedom of the Kuriga school children and others.
Sheikh Gumi’s advocacy for dialogue underscores the importance of exploring peaceful resolutions to the ongoing security challenges, emphasizing the potential for constructive engagement to bring about positive outcomes.