Kaduna-based Islamic scholar Sheikh Ahmad Abubakar Gumi has said that the Federal Government is aware of the identities and locations of terrorists operating in parts of Nigeria.

Gumi made the statement during an interview with DRTV, where he addressed allegations that he maintains personal relationships with terrorists and often speaks on their behalf.

Responding to the claims, the cleric said his interactions with armed groups were not conducted independently and involved security agencies. He stated that government authorities were aware of the individuals involved.

According to him, “The government knows every terrorist by name and by location. I don’t go alone to negotiate; I go with the police and other security agencies.”

Gumi explained that some of the engagements with the groups had included visits to traditional rulers as well as trips into forest areas believed to be hideouts for bandits.

He added that in some cases the visits involved entering remote areas alongside others during dialogue efforts aimed at addressing insecurity.

The Islamic scholar has previously participated in controversial dialogue initiatives with armed groups in northern Nigeria.

He has maintained that negotiations could help persuade fighters to lay down their arms and reduce violence in affected communities.

His remarks come amid ongoing national discussions about strategies to address banditry and terrorism in parts of the country, particularly in the North-West and North-East regions.

Gumi has consistently advocated dialogue as part of efforts to resolve the security challenges facing the country, while critics have questioned the effectiveness of such engagement with armed groups.

The cleric’s latest comments have renewed attention on the debate over whether negotiation should form part of Nigeria’s approach to tackling terrorism and banditry.