SHEIKH AHMAD GUMI'S MEDIATION STRATEGIES IN NORTHERN NIGERIA'S ABDUCTION CONFLICT

Abstract

This study employs a qualitative research approach, to examine the mediatory role of Sheikh Gumi’s Public Relations approach as a conflict management strategy in securing the release of abducted students from Greenfield University in Nigeria. The study extensively explores relevant sources, including books, journal articles, and newspapers, directly addressing the subject matter. The data extracted from these sources was subjected to meticulous analysis. Thematic analysis revealed several key themes, each shedding light on different aspects of Sheikh Gumi's mediation efforts in the context of the abduction crisis. These identified themes encompass the following: Sheikh Gumi's advocacy for amnesty, the role of an external 'contact person' in mediating with the abductors, information pertaining to the non-Fulani leadership within the abductors' group, Sheikh Gumi's pronegotiation stance with terrorist groups, his perception of the government's 
commitment to negotiations, his knowledge of the whereabouts of the abductees, the positive outcomes resulting from Sheikh Gumi's interventions, the potential linkages between Boko Haram and the Bandits involved in the Greenfield abduction, and the fact that Sheikh Gumi's self-appointed mediation activities lack official government endorsement. These themes are thoroughly examined and discussed in the context of existing literature, providing valuable insights and a deeper understanding of Sheikh Gumi's role in mediating the release of the abducted students