How Bandits is Now Embracing Boko Haram Ideology, Claims Gumi
Ahmad Gumi, an Islamic cleric based in Kaduna, has accused Nigerian authorities of inadvertently transforming bandits in North-west and North-central Nigeria into religious extremists similar to Boko Haram insurgents in the North-east.
Gumi pointed to a recent video showing Bello Turji, a notorious bandit leader, and his group celebrating their supposed “victory” over the Nigerian military while claiming to fight for God. Gumi believes this indicates that the bandits have adopted Boko Haram’s extremist ideology.
According to reports, the bandits recently destroyed two Nigerian military MRAP vehicles in Zamfara State, further fueling concerns. Gumi criticized the Nigerian government’s approach, suggesting that their methods might push these bandits from ethnic-based conflicts into ideologically driven terrorism.
In his Facebook post, Gumi warned of the dangers of radicalizing bandits, noting that they initially fought over ethnic issues which could have been resolved. He expressed concern that a more aggressive approach would only lead to them embracing guerrilla warfare driven by ideology, as seen with Boko Haram.
The video in question shows Turji and his followers celebrating with chants and victory slogans after burning the military vehicles. They are depicted in combat gear, loudly proclaiming their allegiance to God.
Meanwhile, the Nigerian Army recently faced setbacks in Zamfara, retreating after abandoning their vehicles during an operation in the Kwashabawa forest due to the difficult terrain and the need to avo
id ambushes.
