Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has condemned the abduction of University of Jos student John Arum, calling for divine retribution against those involved. In a statement, Gumi cursed anyone who aided, participated in or expressed satisfaction over the kidnapping, which was captured in a viral video showing Arum in captivity with a N30 million ransom demand. He attributed Nigeria's rising abduction crisis to failed leadership and overreliance on military force, advocating instead for dialogue, mediation and ideological reorientation as key solutions. Gumi warned that violent crackdowns alone deepen the cycle of violence, stating, "Violence only hardens them; in fact, it is what created them in the first place." He criticized the slow response of government institutions, saying delays have allowed criminal networks to grow bolder and more influential. The student was taken while travelling to Kaduna, and the footage of his captivity has drawn widespread condemnation. The National Association of Nigerian Students has issued a 48-hour ultimatum to the Federal and Plateau State Governments to secure Arum's release, threatening nationwide protests if no action is taken.
Sheikh Ahmad Gumi's public curse reflects his continued reliance on moral and spiritual appeals rather than concrete engagement with security failures. His criticism of military-heavy responses and call for dialogue gain weight given the prolonged failure to rescue John Arum despite visible evidence of his captivity. Ordinary Nigerians are left navigating a reality where student abductions trigger viral outrage and clerical invocations, but not guaranteed rescue. The 48-hour ultimatum by student leaders shows growing public distrust in the state's ability to act without pressure.
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