The Northern Elders Forum has supported plans by Kaduna-based Muslim cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, to engage in dialogue with bandits who abducted about 287 school children from Kuriga Government Secondary and LEA Primary Schools in the Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
It stated that Gumi may be able to secure their release and prevent future abduction.
NEF’s Spokesman, Abdul-Azeez Suleiman, who stated this in an interview with newsmen, said Gumi should be supported to bring about a peaceful resolution to the crisis in Kaduna.
He said negotiating with bandits did not mean condoning their actions or granting them impunity, adding that it was a strategic move to de-escalate the situation and save the lives of victims.
Suleiman said while some may question the legitimacy of negotiating with criminals, it is important to consider the potential benefits of engaging in dialogue, as it is often seen as crucial to finding peaceful solutions.
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