A prominent chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Joe Igbokwe, has voiced strong criticism regarding the actions and pronouncements of Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmad Gumi. Igbokwe alleges that Gumi’s conduct and public statements suggest he operates with impunity, placing himself beyond the reach of legal scrutiny and established governmental authority.
These assertions come in the wake of Gumi’s continued engagement with bandits, particularly in the northern regions of Nigeria, where he has often acted as a negotiator. Igbokwe’s remarks highlight a growing sentiment among some political figures that Gumi’s interventions are not only unhelpful but actively undermine national security efforts. The APC chieftain believes Gumi’s approach legitimizes criminal elements.
Igbokwe specifically pointed to Gumi’s past interactions and perceived leniency towards individuals involved in banditry and kidnapping. He questioned the cleric’s motivations and the effectiveness of his methods, suggesting that instead of fostering peace, Gumi’s actions might inadvertently embolden those perpetrating violence. This has led to a significant public debate about the role of intermediaries in resolving such complex security challenges.
The APC chieftain’s statements underscore a deep concern within certain political circles about the implications of Gumi’s perceived privileged position. He argues that such a stance, if unchecked, can create a dangerous precedent, signaling to other groups that defiance and criminal activity can be navigated through personal connections rather than adherence to the law.
Furthermore, Igbokwe’s critique extends to the broader implications for Nigeria’s justice system and the principle of equal application of the law. He suggested that if individuals, regardless of their public profile or perceived influence, are seen to be above legal accountability, it erodes public trust and the foundational tenets of a democratic society. This raises questions about the government’s response to such perceived high-handedness.
While Gumi has often defended his actions as attempts to broker peace and secure the release of hostages, critics like Igbokwe remain unconvinced. They argue that the ongoing cycle of violence and the continued demands of bandit groups necessitate a more robust and lawful approach, rather than relying on individuals whose actions appear to circumvent established security and judicial processes. The debate highlights a significant divide on how to effectively combat internal security threats.
