Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has stated that Nigeria’s military cannot defeat bandits through force alone. He argued that the government must engage the armed groups in dialogue if it hopes to reduce the growing insecurity across the North-West.

In an interview with the BBC, Gumi explained that conventional armies often struggle against guerrilla fighters, and Nigeria is not an exception. He noted that even the military acknowledges that addressing this kind of internal conflict is only about 25% military action, while the remaining effort depends on political decisions, government intervention, and community involvement.

“Which country has ever defeated guerrilla fighters purely through military means? None,” he said.

His remarks come at a time when President Bola Tinubu has instructed security agencies to ensure the safe rescue of all individuals abducted by terrorists. The President also urged security forces to collaborate closely with state governors to secure the release of kidnapped victims.