President Bola Ahmed Tinubu must consider the offer Sheikh Gumi to negotiate the release of the 287 students abducted by bandits in Kaduna state.
This is the position of the Northern Elders Forum, NEF, as the hope of rescuing the students alive remain doubtful.
The magazine reports that the students were kidnapped two weeks ago by the daredevil bandits
from Kuriga Government Secondary and LEA Primary Schools in the Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
The Kaduna-baes islamic cleric has offered to serve as a negotiator for the release of the abductees.
The federal government has insisted that it was not prepared to negotiate, ordering security forces to go after the criminals.
Speaking to Punch Newspaper on Saturday, NEF’s Spokesman, Abdul-Azeez Suleiman, urged the federal government to pull its weight behind Gumi’s quest to negotiate the release of the students.
According to him, negotiating with the bandits did not necessarily legitimise their activities, stressing that Gumi’s offer present an opportunity to save the students, and ensure their safe return.
Suleiman said, “While some may question the legitimacy of negotiating with criminals, it is important to consider the potential benefits of engaging in dialogue. In conflict resolution, dialogue is often seen as crucial to finding peaceful solutions.
“By engaging with the bandits, Gumi may be able to understand their grievances and motivations, which could potentially lead to the safe release of the abducted children. Additionally, opening lines of communication with the bandits could pave the way for addressing underlying issues such as poverty, lack of education, and marginalisation that contribute to the cycle of violence.
“Moreover, pursuing a dialogue with the bandits does not necessarily mean condoning their actions or granting them impunity. It is a strategic move to de-escalate the situation and protect the lives of innocent victims.
“By initiating talks, Gumi may be able to secure the release of the schoolchildren and potentially prevent future abductions. While dialogue with bandits may seem controversial, it can be a necessary step in resolving conflicts and ensuring the safety of hostages; Gumi’s intention to engage in dialogue should be supported as a means to bring about a peaceful resolution to the crisis in Kaduna.”
Recall that Ajuri Ngelale, President Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity recently accused some leaders from the north of supporting the bandits.
