Prominent Islamic cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, has invoked divine curses on the kidnappers of University of Jos student, John Arum, describing the worsening kidnapping crisis as a monumental failure of leadership and security strategy in Nigeria.
In a strongly worded reaction to a viral video showing the abducted student in captivity, with his abductors demanding a N30 million ransom, Sheikh Gumi condemned the perpetrators for their complete loss of humanity.
“May Allah destroy any person who helped in creating this situation or participated in any form, or neglected his or her duty in saving the situation, or is even happy about it,” the cleric declared.
Gumi warned that the growing wave of abductions now poses a serious threat to every Nigerian, irrespective of status or location.
He criticised the country’s over-reliance on military force as a sole solution to insecurity, arguing that such an approach has proven ineffective and even counterproductive.
“Violence only hardens them; in fact, it is what created them in the first place,” he said, stressing the need for a more comprehensive strategy that combines limited kinetic operations with greater emphasis on non-kinetic measures such as dialogue, mediation, and ideological reorientation.
The cleric also faulted the slow response by government institutions, saying the gaps created by inaction have emboldened criminal networks and allowed them to expand their operations across the country.
“There is no room or time for abuses, sentimental judgment, or conspiracy theories. The danger is real and anybody can be a victim tomorrow,” Gumi added.
Known for his controversial engagements with armed groups in northern Nigeria, Gumi has often advocated for dialogue as a viable tool in resolving insecurity.
While his approach draws criticism from those who accuse him of legitimising criminals, supporters credit him with helping to secure the release of hostages in cases where conventional methods failed.
The abducted UNIJOS student was reportedly taken while travelling to Kaduna. The circulation of the distressing video has sparked widespread outrage.
Reacting to the incident, the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) issued a 48-hour ultimatum to the Federal Government and Plateau State Government to secure John Arum’s release, threatening to embark on nationwide protests if the deadline is not met.
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