Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has cautioned security agencies not to provoke armed groups in Katsina following a peace deal in Faskari, where bandit leader Ado Alero and residents engaged in unprecedented dialogue.
KATSINA — Kaduna-based cleric Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has urged security agencies not to jeopardize a fragile peace agreement between residents of Faskari Local Government Area and armed groups.
In a Facebook post, Gumi warned: “Some people who don’t want peace, will provoke them again by attacking them. It’s very important to educate them that they are used by capitalising on their ignorance and zeal to vengeance.”
His remarks follow a peace meeting on Sunday involving residents, traditional leaders, and wanted bandit kingpin Ado Alero, alongside dozens of armed herders. A video obtained by *SaharaReporters* showed participants, some visibly carrying rifles and ammunition, engaging openly in dialogue.
Alero said tensions escalated after the unexplained arrest of one of his followers despite appeals to state authorities. “They never told us why he was arrested, and from there, I left the matter,” he said. Describing the latest talks as “unprecedented,” he expressed hope for peace in Katsina and beyond.
Also present, Fulani herder Kwashé Garwa condemned the stereotyping of Fulani as bandits, arguing: “Which tribe in the world does not have criminals among them?” He insisted justice must be served equally to end violence.
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