After being questioned by the Department of State Services (DSS) regarding his comments on bandit activities in Nigeria, well-known Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has spoken out for the first time.
Gumi described his interaction with the security officials as fruitful.
He had proposed to engage in discussions with the bandits responsible for the abduction at Kuriga Government Secondary and LEA Primary Schools in Kaduna State’s Chikun Local Government Area.
He advised President Bola Tinubu not to replicate the error made by former President Muhammadu Buhari, who he claimed refused to negotiate with bandits.
The Kaduna school children who were kidnapped were released without any ransom being paid, as confirmed by the government on Sunday.
In a social media post titled ‘Only one person is above the law: The Innocent!’ on Tuesday, Gumi reassured the public, stating, “Yesterday evening, I received numerous urgent calls from supporters and journalists regarding news of a security interview. There is no need for concern.
“We had a constructive discussion on combatting banditry, as we are all working separately to address the nation’s pressing issue. The atmosphere was cordial and respectful, devoid of any hostility.
“It’s essential for us as a nation to come together and collaborate towards achieving lasting peace. Your worries are appreciated. May Allah safeguard us all from harm.”
Gumi has previously acted as a mediator for state governments in securing the release of abducted individuals.