Sheikh Ahmad Gumi’s Treacherous Proposal for the Southeast.
The role of a public figure, especially a cleric, is to encourage peace, unity, and mutual understanding. However, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, a Kaduna-based Islamic cleric, has once again stirred controversy with his inflammatory and inharmonious statements. His recent call for the federal government to arm Igbo youths as a countermeasure to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) is not only reckless but also reeks of ulterior motives aimed at destabilizing the Southeast region.
As a human rights advocate, I find it imperative to critically analyze this proposal, which is fraught with dangerous implications. Below are key points addressing Sheikh Gumi's troubling narrative and the potential consequences of his suggestions. Sir Barrister Ifeanyi Ejiofor has analyzed the diabolical plans:
1. Sheikh Gumi's Complicity in Northern Insecurity: It is well-known that Sheikh Gumi, driven by a questionable obsession with monetary benefits, has played a significant role in exacerbating terrorism and banditry across Northern Nigeria. His actions have contributed to the region's dire state of insecurity.
2. Defender of Enemies of the State: Sheikh Gumi has gained notoriety for his defense of individuals and groups waging violent campaigns against Nigeria. Despite his open affiliations with such elements, he remains untouched, enjoying a troubling level of immunity.
3. Gumi's Accomplices Under Investigation: One of Gumi’s emissaries is currently in the custody of the State Security Service for his role in promoting banditry. It is difficult to ignore the likelihood that Sheikh Gumi covertly enables such activities while acting as their chief negotiator.
4. Misguided Advice on Arming the South East: Sheikh Gumi’s inability to address the rampant terrorism and insecurity in his region makes his advice to arm youths in the South East, not only hypocritical but also dangerous.
5. Manipulating the Narrative Against the South East: It is clear that the criminal activities in the South East are not the work of IPOB but rather, opportunistic criminals masquerading as freedom fighters. Sheikh Gumi’s suggestion would only serve to pit Igbo people against one another, plunging the region into chaos.
6. IPOB's Stance Against Criminals: IPOB has repeatedly distanced itself from these criminal elements and, in its recent press release, even offered to collaborate with local security outfits to eliminate such threats.
7. Gumi's Hidden Agenda: The ultimate goal of Sheikh Gumi appears to be the destabilization of Igbo land, creating a scenario where brothers turn against brothers, resulting in needless bloodshed and destruction.
8. Unity Against External Intruders: Despite the political conspiracies against the Igbos, the most marginalized ethnic group in Nigeria, we have resolved to take our destiny into our own hands. Together, we will fight the real intruders who wreak havoc on our land.
9. A Message to Sheikh Gumi - Let it be clear: Sheikh Gumi’s divisive mission is dead on arrival. The Igbo people have learned their lessons through hard and painful experiences and will not fall for such manipulative tactics Aimed at destabilizing the region. Instead, they will continue to pursue unity, peace, and justice, holding firm against any attempts to undermine their collective resolve.
As a nation, Nigeria faces complex challenges that require thoughtful, inclusive, and constructive solutions. Proposals like Sheikh Gumi’s, which are divisive and inflammatory, only serve to deepen the fissures in our fragile unity. Leaders, clerics, and advocates must promote dialogue and understanding rather than sow seeds of discord.
The Southeast, like any other region, deserves peace, development, and justice. Attempts to destabilize it must be resisted with vigilance and unity. Let us work together to build a nation where every region thrives in harmony and security
Daniel Okonkwo is an International Human Rights Advocate committed to promoting peace, justice, and equality across Nigeria and beyond.
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