An Islamic scholar has called on the Nigerian government on the need for holistic amnesty approach to bandits herdsmen operating in parts of the country.
Shiek Doctor Ahmed Abubakar Gumi who recently embarked on a mission to persuades bandits against the ongoing attacks on communities across parts of the country, was in Niger state because of the resurgence of kidnapping and banditry activities in parts of the state.
Shiek Gumi mentioned that most of the herdsmen bandits are very much ready to drops arms and negotiate with the government.
“We met with their leaders and they are willing to release those with them, but as for the school children they will find a possible way of releasing them even though according to them they were not responsible for their kidnap “the Sheik said.
The Islamic scholar who further emphasized on amnesty to the repentant bandits if possible, pointed out that same was extended to the Niger Delta militants in proffering a lasting solution to the crises in the Niger Delta region years ago.
“Amnesty is part of the negotiation for settlement, without which, I don’t see how the banditry issue could be settled peacefully “.
He further mentioned that most of the herdsmen bandits he met on his mission are ready to put down arms and repent given the necessary conditions by the government.
