A Renowned Kaduna Islamic Cleric, Sheikh (Dr.) Abubakar Ahmad Gumi has refuted allegations credited to him that declaring bandits terrorists would end Nigeria, saying he was quoted out of context.
Gumi stated this while speaking to the media during an inspection visit to the Sheikh Uthman Bin Fodio Centre at Kagarko Grazing Reserve Kohoto Village, donated by Sultan Bello Mosque Foundation on Monday
Sheikh Gumi explained that Ninety-nine percent of herdsmen are not involved in banditry and If the state now says all herdsmen are terrorists, Nigeria will have problems all over, was forced to ask What will remain of Nigeria if everywhere is in flames?”
According to him, allowing herdsmen to turn into religious fanatics, there will be trouble.
He advised that, instead of spending billions on hardware, the government should spend it on schools, adding that he has spoken to lots of the Bandits and they have agreed to lay down their weapons and embrace education.
Speaking on the school, he said the centre contains six classrooms, which would be engaged for 24 hours daily.
“The herdsmen takes cattle for grazing in the morning, comes back and studies in the evening.
“Before then, we would run primary and secondary schools at intervals.
“We have a hospital also at the centre as well as an economic booster on showing them how to feed their animals.
“If we can replicate this everywhere, Nigeria will be in peace,” he submitted,” he said
In his remarks, the Fulani Chief of the community, Ardo Ahmed Tahiru said they are excited about the project.
Also speaking, Imam Tafa Dahiru noted that the project has united the community and they are all full of joy.
Similarly, a Christian cleric in the community, Luka Mai Ungwar commended Sheikh Gumi for the gesture, saying that he is delighted that their children don’t need to travel far before going to school.