Kaduna-based Islamic cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Mahmud Abubakar Gumi, has alleged that some major foreign powers are backing armed groups and terrorists operating in Nigeria.
Speaking in an interview with BBC Hausa, the cleric alleged that the recent escalation in insecurity across the country suggests the involvement of influential external actors.
According to him, the pattern of violence in recent days are indications that foreign hands may be fuelling the crisis.
He noted that, until recently, attacks had reduced in several areas.
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He cited the Abuja-Kaduna highway as an example, explaining that the route used to be a deadly trap for travellers but had become relatively safe until recently.
Sheikh Gumi added that many farmers in Birnin Gwari have also returned to their farmlands, a situation he said would have been impossible in the past when insecurity was at its peak.
He alleged that the resurgence of the the insecurity came after recent discussions involving foreign countries about Nigeria.
“There was a statement made by some foreign nations, and for long we have suspected these terrorists and extremists, and from the nature of their weapons, we realised they receive support foreign support.”
“These are powerful and wealthy foreign individuals who have the means to penetrate and interfere with the affairs of other nations.”
On the recent surge in attacks, the cleric said it was not surprising that once Nigeria is accused of something, a conflict suddenly erupts to make the narrative appear true.
On his position about dialogue with bandits, he said, “Everyone knows them. But what people do not talk about is this: what caused people we once lived peacefully with to turn against us and become a plague in the society? There is a reason.”
“There are two kinds of people whose actions should not shock anyone, the insane and the ignorant. There is no amount of explanation you give them that will make them understand that wrongdoing is wrong.”
“Everything they do is destructive. But who will advise them to stop? When we tried to reach them and tell them it is forbidden to steal, forbidden to take people’s wealth and forbidden to kidnap, the previous government did not support us. Had that support been given, this issue would have been resolved by now.”
Sheikh Ahmad Gumi warned that unless the root causes of the current unrest were addressed, the crisis would persist.
He cautioned that his approach to fighting insecurity, especially through negotiations should not be interpreted as supporting bandits, explaining that “Our religion does not condone oppression; all what we are doing is for the sake of Allah.”
