Kaduna-based Islamic cleric Ahmad Gumi has urged the federal government to consider granting amnesty to armed bandits in the same way repentant Boko Haram members have been rehabilitated and reintegrated into society.

Speaking during a press briefing in Kaduna on Monday, Gumi argued that Nigeria’s prolonged military approach to insecurity has failed to produce lasting results after nearly two decades, the Cable NG reports.

According to him, authorities should adopt a different strategy focused on dialogue, rehabilitation and reintegration rather than relying solely on force.

“If the kinetic approach is not working for 17 years, why don’t you change the approach? Let’s change the method,” Gumi said.

The cleric suggested that some armed groups are willing to surrender if they are guaranteed protection from arrest or retaliation after laying down their weapons.

“They said they fear when they lay down arms, they will then be pursued and arrested. So give them the amnesty so that they don’t need to fear putting down their arms,” he added.

Gumi also criticised previous state-led negotiations with bandits, saying some initiatives merely involved paying off criminals without addressing the root causes of insecurity. He called for efforts to remove armed groups from forests, educate their children and create rehabilitation programmes.

The Islamic scholar further denied allegations linking him to support for terrorism or violent groups, insisting he has consistently advocated peace and reconciliation.

Gumi has repeatedly canvassed amnesty for bandits over the years. In 2021, he argued that if those involved in Nigeria’s civil war and past military coups were pardoned, repentant bandits should also be considered for forgiveness.

His position has remained controversial, with critics arguing that granting blanket amnesty could embolden criminal groups and undermine justice for victims of terrorism and banditry.