Dare Babalola
Islamic cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, has reacted to the reported abduction of John Arum, a student of the University of Jos (UNIJOS), urging a rethink of Nigeria’s approach to tackling insecurity and securing the release of victims.
In a social media post on Thursday, Gumi expressed concern over the worsening security situation and questioned the effectiveness of current strategies, particularly the heavy reliance on force.
He argued that violent responses often worsen the problem rather than resolve it.
“We all know that these people we are dealing with have lost their humanity. Violence only hardens them; in fact, it’s what created them,” he said, suggesting that non-violent measures should play a greater role in addressing insecurity.
The cleric noted that he had previously advocated the use of empathy and proper religious instruction as a means of reforming perpetrators, but lamented that such approaches have not gained sufficient support.
He added, “I thought that planting empathy in them through correct religious instruction would tame them—most, if not all—not knowing that the violence they exercise is what most people believe is the only answer.”
Citing the views of security experts, Gumi emphasised the need for a balanced strategy.
According to him, effective conflict resolution should involve “25 per cent kinetic and 75 per cent non-kinetic” measures, stressing that dialogue, rehabilitation, and social interventions remain critical components often overlooked.
He further warned against politicising or trivialising the crisis, noting that the threat of abduction and violence affects all Nigerians.
“There is no room or time for abuses, sentimental judgment, or conspiracy theories. The danger is real and anybody can be a victim tomorrow,” he cautioned.
Gumi also criticised what he described as the slow response of the state to security threats, warning that delays create opportunities for exploitation by non-state actors.
“The state is slow to react and any non-state actor becomes a source of blackmail,” he added.
The cleric concluded with a strong condemnation of individuals he believes have contributed to the crisis, either through direct involvement or negligence.
He offered prayers for justice and accountability, saying, “May Allah destroy any person who helped in creating this situation or participated in any form or neglect his or her duty in saving the situation.”
The abduction of the UNIJOS student has once again drawn attention to ongoing security challenges in parts of the country, with calls intensifying for more effective and comprehensive responses from authorities.
