What Caused Increase In Kaduna Killings, Abductions – Gumi

Renowned Islamic scholar Sheikh Abubakar Ahmad Gumi has revealed the cause for the increase in killings and abductions in Kaduna State.

Speaking in an interview with The PUNCH on Monday, Gumi attributed the recent increase in kidnappings in Kaduna to the attacks on the camps of the bandits.

The controversial cleric said the bandits are retaliating due to the heavy casualties suffered at the hands of the Nigerian military.

He asked the government to dialogue with bandits that are ready to embrace peace, adding that it was the only way to resolve the crisis in the state.

Gumi appealed to the government to put the interest of the kidnapped students first and make the necessary sacrifices to secure their freedom.

The cleric, however, revealed that a particular gang was responsible for the continuous attacks in the state, noting that there are different factions of the kidnappers

He said, “It is because the other states are trying to respect the peace (of the bandits), but in Kaduna State, it has been declared that they should be bombed and annihilated. Whenever the attack is much on them, they will fight back. I am calling on the authorities to pipe down and let’s see how we can get them to reason and stop kidnappings and shedding of innocent blood.”

Naija News had earlier reported that the cleric kicked against calls for the sacking of Nigeria’s Minister of Communication and Digital Economy, Isa Pantami.

Gumi, who was speaking in an interview with Roots TV, warned that Nigerians will regret it if Isa Ali Pantami is removed from office.

The Kaduna-based Islamic preacher said the embattled minister was rather a nation-builder who was working to attract other youths of his Ilk to support the government.

He said “Show me one person he has killed. He has not killed anybody. He has not ordered the killing of anybody. The man is stabilising a government among a section of youths which we want them to come and join in nation-building.”

Gumi also said Pantami was a victim of wicked campaigns to remove him from office.

“And you people are fighting them. No. You should get more people like Pantami and put them in power. Don’t remove him. You’ll regret,” he warned.