Prominent Islamic scholar Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has asserted that the Federal Government of Nigeria possesses detailed intelligence on the identities and exact locations of all terrorists operating in the country.
The controversial cleric made the claim during an interview on DRTV, where he addressed longstanding accusations that he personally knows, interacts with, and advocates for terrorists and bandits in Nigeria's northwest region.
“The government knows every terrorist by name and location,” Gumi stated emphatically. He went on to defend his past involvement in negotiations, emphasizing that he never acted independently.“
I don’t go alone to negotiate, I go with the police, military, and other security agencies. I would go to the Emirs. In fact, when we went to one forest, I even went with women into the bush,” he added.
Gumi's remarks appear to counter criticisms portraying him as sympathetic to armed groups, while implying that if authorities have such precise knowledge, questions arise about the persistence of insecurity despite available intelligence.
The Kaduna-based preacher, a former medical doctor and army captain, has long been a polarizing figure in Nigeria's security discourse.
He has previously advocated for dialogue and negotiation with bandit groups as an alternative to military confrontation, arguing that many are driven by socioeconomic grievances rather than pure ideology.
His statements come amid ongoing debates over counter-terrorism strategies, including recent U.S. military actions against terrorist targets in northern Nigeria and domestic calls for stronger enforcement against banditry and insurgency.
Gumi has faced repeated calls from critics and rights groups for investigation or arrest over his alleged defense of armed elements, though he maintains his engagements were sanctioned and aimed at peace-building.
No immediate response has been issued by the Federal Government or security agencies to Gumi's latest claims.
The interview has sparked widespread reactions on social media, with some users questioning government inaction if the intelligence is indeed as comprehensive as alleged.
Click to signup for FREE news updates, latest information and hottest gists everyday
Advertise on NigerianEye.com to reach thousands of our daily users
No comments
Post a Comment
Kindly drop a comment below.
(Comments are moderated. Clean comments will be approved immediately)
Advert Enquires - Reach out to us at NigerianEye@gmail.com