Islamic cleric Ahmad Gumi has reiterated that dialogue with underprivileged and violent groups remains the most practical path to addressing Nigeria’s insecurity crisis.
In a Facebook post on Thursday, Gumi said years of neglect of disadvantaged communities have led to deep socio-economic inequalities, making many young people susceptible to manipulation by forces intent on destabilising the country.
He added that the growing divide between the rich and the poor has turned numerous youths into “ready-made foot soldiers” in recurring cycles of violence that facilitate the exploitation of Nigeria’s resources.
He also criticised the political class for being largely unresponsive, while noting that the intellectual community is preoccupied with survival struggles.
Reflecting on his past efforts, Gumi said he “took the bull by the horns” in 2021 by attempting to reintegrate violent elements into society rather than allowing them to be further radicalised.
He wrote: “Nigeria for decades has ignored the underprivileged section of its society. There is a significant socio-economic discrepancy, and the society is stratified. This makes our teaming youth ready-made foot soldiers for any foreign interest trying to divide us and rule. To plunder our resources while we are involved in a vicious circle of violence.
”Unfortunately, the political class is unattentive while the intelligentsia is held hostage in the struggle for existence.
“In 2021, I took the bull by the horns in an attempt to bring some of these uncouth elements back to our fold rather than letting them be exploited by the devil.
“I still believe this is the only way out of our predicament. However, it needs the political will and determination to achieve.
“May Allah bring peace back to our nation.”