Gumi: Fulani Bandits Are Not Terrorists; ‘They Only Kidnap for Ransom, Unlike IPOB That Kills Security Forces’
Gumi: Fulani Bandits Are Not Terrorists; ‘They Only Kidnap for Ransom, Unlike IPOB That Kills Security Forces’
Gumi: Fulani Bandits Are Not Terrorists; ‘They Only Kidnap for Ransom, Unlike IPOB That Kills Security Forces’
Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has stirred widespread debate following remarks he made regarding the activities of Fulani bandits in Nigeria.
In a statement, Gumi asserted that while Fulani bandits are involved in kidnappings for ransom, they should not be classified in the same category as terrorist groups such as the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). He argued that IPOB is responsible for violent attacks on security personnel, including soldiers and police officers.
“The Fulani bandits only kidnap children to collect ransom money. They are not terrorists like IPOB who kill soldiers and police officers. Let’s all be fair to them,” he said.
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The comments have since drawn strong reactions from Nigerians, with many criticising the cleric for appearing to downplay the severity of the bandits’ actions, which have resulted in widespread fear, displacement, and loss of lives across several states.
Security analysts also note that kidnapping for ransom remains a major national security threat, regardless of motive or comparison.
The controversy adds to ongoing national conversations on insecurity, criminal categorisation, and the need for unified, non-politicised approaches to tackling violence in all its forms.
Gumi: Fulani Bandits Are Not Terrorists; ‘They Only Kidnap for Ransom, Unlike IPOB That Kills Security Forces’
