Nigerians on social media have characterized Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate Peter Obi’s recent visit to Kaduna-based Islamic cleric Ahmad Gumi as part of his strategic plan to dialogue with all aggrieved citizens for peaceful resolution.
Peter Obi and his running mate, Datti Baba-Ahmed, paid a courtesy call on Gumi in Kaduna on Monday, ahead of the 2023 election.
Gumi, who was at the forefront of peace talks with bandits who kidnapped Government Science College students in Kagara, Niger State, in early 2021, also led a delegation to visit bandits in Kaduna and Zamfara State forests.
Obi tweeted photos from the visit, writing, “Arriving Kaduna with Dr Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, to honor the invitation of the Arewa Joint Committee.” Dr. Datti and I paid Sheikh Gumi a courtesy call at his official residence in Kaduna.”
Dr Datti Baba-Ahmed and I stopped by for a courtesy call on Sheikh Gumi at his official residence in Kaduna. -PO pic.twitter.com/jk2Dfq49gy
— Peter Obi (@PeterObi) October 17, 2022
The two were in the state to participate in an interactive session for presidential candidates organized by the Arewa Joint Committee.
Reactions to the unexpected visit have continued.
@PopularOnyeka; “Give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar and give to God what belongs to God!! You’re a strategic man! And I trust you. May God protect you and turn your enemies into helping hands.”
@emmyskillz2; “Omo, this one loud oo , but I trust your decision my President 100%.”
@alwashik; “He is carrying everyone, I mean everyone to the Nigeria of our dreams.”
@virgo_brownie; “Hmmm. Is this not the same gumi that’s linked to terrorism ? Po what is happening?”
@nNdianefoD; “Gumi has questions to answer, sha don’t forget that when you become president.”
@Dr chazduke; “Peter Obi is the real unifier and bridge builder.”
@Michael_Chidike; “He needs to know what Gumi knows to be able to solve the problems of insecurity.”
@FinalRabbi; “A president and more. If Nigerians miss this opportunity, no need again, no hope again. Obi when you become President, please save us from poverty, save us from terrorists, save our naira, give us light. We no need too much.”
@IMbahaotu; “Peter Obi will be the president for all, even a criminal will repent at the mention of Peter Obi. Nigeria should get ready for a positive change.”