Sheikh Gumi: I’ll Back IPOB, Boko Haram, Others If They Lay Down Arms and Embrace Dialogue

Controversial Islamic cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, has said he might support armed groups like the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Boko Haram, and bandits in Nigeria but only if they abandon violence and engage in peaceful discussions with the federal government.

Speaking in an interview with DRTV, Gumi stressed that dialogue is a crucial tool for resolving the country’s security challenges. “Dialogue can bring peace, and we are men of peace. Even IPOB, which was once into secession, if they are ready to put down their arms and come to a roundtable to discuss, I’m ready and would support them. All we don’t want is violence,” he said.

Gumi also advocated combining military action with non-violent strategies such as intellectual engagement and negotiation. He blamed Nigeria’s socio-economic problems, including poor infrastructure, unreliable electricity, high healthcare costs, and failing education, for worsening insecurity.

“What is the way out of insecurity? Let’s bring intellectuals to speak. What are the experts saying now in dealing with the situation in Nigeria?” he asked.