Gumi Defends Banditry, Claims It’s a Reaction to Neglect, Not Political Sponsorship

Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, a prominent Islamic cleric, has dismissed allegations that politicians are behind the growing insecurity in northern Nigeria, particularly the rise of banditry in the North-West.

In an interview with “Punch”, Gumi emphasized that violence is a “natural reaction” of people who have been neglected for centuries without proper education or resources, rather than the result of political sponsorship.

This follows claims by Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma, who suggested that politicians were fueling the unrest for personal gain.

Gumi refuted these allegations, stating,

“This is an unintelligent allegation. No politician is sponsoring these people. We are all victims.”

He added that the bandits, now exposed to the internet and global opportunities, are lashing out against their long-standing deprivation, not under any politician’s influence.

According to him, the unrest is rooted in the desire for education and better opportunities.

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The North-West has been plagued by increasing banditry, leading to significant loss of life and displacement of communities.

As the debate continues on the causes of the violence, Gumi’s stance shifts the focus toward systemic neglect and the need for government intervention to address education and social inequalities in the region.