Prominent Nigerian journalist and former presidential spokesman, Laolu Akande, has strongly opposed renewed calls for amnesty for bandits, warning that such a move would only worsen the nation’s growing security challenges.
Speaking during a discussion on national insecurity, Akande criticized Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmad Gumi for repeatedly advocating dialogue and amnesty for armed groups responsible for widespread killings, kidnappings, and destruction across the country.
Akande argued that negotiating with criminals who continue to unleash terror on innocent citizens sends the wrong message and undermines efforts to restore peace and order.
According to him, the government must focus on delivering justice and strengthening security operations rather than offering concessions to violent groups. He also dismissed comparisons between the activities of bandits and past agitations in the Niger Delta, insisting that the two situations are fundamentally different.
The veteran broadcaster further urged government officials and state governors to resist any temptation to pursue secret negotiations with bandits.
He maintained that Nigerians deserve adequate protection and accountability from authorities, stressing that normalizing talks with unrepentant criminals could embolden further violence. Akande concluded by calling for practical solutions to the security crisis, emphasizing that the safety of citizens must remain the government’s top priority.
