Sheikh Gumi Urges Nigerians to Embrace Peaceful Coexistence With Herdsmen to Prevent Security Risks
Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has urged Nigerians to foster peaceful relations with herdsmen, warning that seeing them as enemies could worsen the country’s security challenges.
In a video making rounds on social media, the Islamic cleric emphasized that herdsmen are a vital part of Nigerian society and should be treated as neighbours rather than adversaries. He cautioned that any animosity toward them could be exploited by individuals or groups seeking to destabilize communities.
Gumi noted that unresolved tensions between herders and local populations risk being manipulated by actors who benefit from conflict. He stressed that learning to live together peacefully is key to safeguarding national unity and preventing insecurity.
He stated:
“Herdsmen are going nowhere. They are part of us, and we are part of them. We must learn to live together. They’re our neighbours, so we should never allow them to be our enemies. If we make that mistake, we’re finished, because our real enemies will use them against us.”
“Herdsmen are going nowhere. They are part of us, and we are part of them. We must learn to live together and should never become enemies with them.”
— Sheikh Gumi
— CHUKS 🍥 (@ChuksEricE) December 26, 2025
