Gumi Advocates Dialogue, Inclusion as Key to Ending Nigeria’s Insecurity

Islamic cleric, Ahmad Gumi, has reiterated that engaging underprivileged and violent groups remains the most effective solution to Nigeria’s worsening insecurity.

In a Facebook post shared on Thursday, Gumi argued that decades of neglect of disadvantaged communities have fueled deep socio-economic inequalities across the country, making many young people susceptible to manipulation and recruitment into violent activities.

He stressed that the growing divide between the wealthy and the poor has created a pool of frustrated youths who are easily exploited by external actors seeking to destabilise Nigeria and benefit from its resources.

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According to the cleric, these youths have become “ready-made foot soldiers” in cycles of violence, particularly in regions plagued by banditry and insurgency. He warned that without deliberate efforts to address poverty and marginalisation, insecurity would continue to thrive.

Gumi maintained that military force alone cannot resolve the crisis, calling instead for a more inclusive strategy that prioritises dialogue, rehabilitation, and economic empowerment of vulnerable populations. He noted that engaging such groups could help reduce violence and reintegrate affected individuals into society.

The cleric’s remarks come amid ongoing concerns over persistent attacks, kidnappings, and communal clashes in different parts of the country, despite intensified security operations by the government.

He urged authorities to adopt a holistic approach that tackles the root causes of insecurity, including unemployment, lack of education, and social exclusion, rather than relying solely on force.

Gumi concluded that lasting peace can only be achieved when all segments of society feel included and have access to opportunities that discourage participation in violence.