NEF urges Tinubu to allow Sheikh Gumi negotiate with bandits for release of abducted schoolchildren

The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) has thrown its weight behind the proposal by Kaduna-based Muslim cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, to engage in dialogue with the bandits responsible for the abduction of approximately 287 schoolchildren from Kuriga Government Secondary and LEA Primary Schools in the Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

 

 

 

 

 

In the wake of escalating insecurity, particularly in Kaduna and Borno states, where insurgents recently abducted 200 internally displaced women and 287 pupils and teachers from schools, the NEF believes Gumi’s intervention could lead to the release of the abducted victims and prevent future abductions.

 

 

 

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The terrorists reportedly stormed Kuriga, firing indiscriminately before abducting the pupils and teachers from the schools, prompting Sheikh Gumi to appeal to President Bola Tinubu for permission to negotiate with the bandits. Gumi cautioned against repeating the mistake of former President Muhammadu Buhari, who refused to engage in dialogue with the bandits.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

However, the Federal Government has firmly stated its stance against paying ransom for the release of schoolchildren, emphasizing its commitment to ensuring their safe return.

 

 

 

 

 

 

NEF’s Spokesman, Abdul-Azeez Suleiman, emphasized the importance of supporting Gumi’s efforts to bring about a peaceful resolution to the crisis in Kaduna. Suleiman clarified that negotiating with bandits does not equate to condoning their actions or granting them impunity, but rather serves as a strategic move to de-escalate the situation and safeguard the lives of innocent victims.

 

 

 

 

 

Suleiman highlighted the potential benefits of dialogue, citing its significance in conflict resolution and the possibility of understanding the grievances and motivations of the bandits.

 

 

 

 

 

 

He underscored that initiating talks with the bandits could lead to the safe release of the abducted children and address underlying issues such as poverty, lack of education, and marginalisation.