Leadnaija
Kaduna-based Islamic cleric, Ahmad Gumi, has emphasized that the newly created Ministry of Livestock Development could significantly reduce armed banditry and other security challenges in Nigeria’s North-West, provided it is properly managed and depoliticized.
During a visit from former Sports Minister Solomon Dalung, Mr. Gumi highlighted the deteriorating state of the country, marked by poverty, illiteracy, and divisive leadership.
He said, “The psychology of the herders is that all people living in the city are their enemies, including their fellow Fulanis, who suffer more of their cruelty when kidnapped. If they can see physical developments on the ground and the government is assisting them, I am assuming that they will lay down their arms.”
Mr. Gumi pointed out that similar approaches in Kaduna State have already led to some progress.
“Now in Birnin Gwari Local Government Area, the Kaduna State Governor is trying by engaging the bandits in dialogue, and the people there have returned to their farms, their market has opened, and a similar effort is ongoing in southern Kaduna,” he noted.
He also criticized federal economic policies, stating, “The government must consider the welfare of the common man, not what will make the government rich. It doesn’t make sense when the government is rich and its people are poor. We must shift from strict capitalism to a welfarist state.”
Addressing broader security issues, Mr. Gumi said, “Some people outside the country have interests in Nigeria’s natural resources, and that is why they are exploiting the villagers and the illiterate among us to achieve their aims. If the illicit miners can control the bandits in the bush and get what they want, why can’t the authorities do so for peace to reign?”
Former Minister Dalung echoed concerns about growing insecurity, particularly the emergence of the Lakurawa terrorist group.
He said, “The members are not Nigerians or Fulani but are waxing stronger in the northern region, occupying territories and building boreholes to lure the youth population. If we continue like this, in 2027, the North will not participate in the election.”
Both leaders called for immediate action to address insecurity, poverty, and the exploitation of vulnerable populations to prevent further deterioration of the region. Tap Here To Read Full Details
