Controversial Kaduna-based Islamic cleric, Ahmad Abubakar Gumi, has alleged that the Nigerian government is fully aware of the identities and locations of terrorists operating across the country.
Gumi made the claim while speaking during a television interview, where he defended his controversial meetings with armed groups in different parts of northern Nigeria.
According to him, his visits to the groups are not carried out secretly and often involve the knowledge of security agencies and traditional leaders.
The cleric stated that authorities are aware of the individuals involved in terrorist activities and where they operate.
He explained that whenever he plans to meet the groups, he informs security agencies and local leaders, including emirs, insisting that he does not travel to such locations alone.
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Gumi further revealed that some of his visits to the camps of armed groups were done openly and sometimes involved other civilians.
According to him, the objective of such engagements is to preach against violence and encourage the fighters to abandon criminal activities such as kidnapping and banditry.
The cleric, who has long advocated dialogue with armed groups, maintained that negotiations remain a viable option for ending the prolonged insecurity affecting parts of northern Nigeria.
He also suggested that the recent resurgence of violent attacks in the country may not be entirely local, claiming that some foreign interests could be backing armed groups and terrorist networks operating in Nigeria.
Gumi argued that the pattern and coordination of recent attacks indicate the involvement of powerful external actors capable of influencing events within the country.
He noted that some communities that previously experienced relative peace have recently witnessed a renewed wave of violence.
The cleric added that areas which is considered dangerous had begun to stabilise before attacks resurfaced, raising questions about the forces behind the renewed insecurity.
Addressing criticisms of his engagement with the armed groups, Gumi insisted that his actions are driven by religious duty and the desire to promote peace.
He argued that dialogue and understanding the root causes of the conflict are necessary steps toward resolving the crisis.
Gumi also claimed that previous attempts to reach out to the fighters and discourage criminal acts were not adequately supported by government authorities, suggesting that stronger backing for such peace efforts could have helped reduce the level of violence.
The cleric maintained that his approach is aimed at ending bloodshed and restoring peace to communities affected by years of insecurity.
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