Prominent Islamic cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, has once again made headlines as he revealed his readiness to lead calls for the pardon and amnesty of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Nnamdi Kanu, under certain conditions. Sheikh Gumi emphasised that his support would be contingent on Kanu showing genuine remorse for his actions and a true commitment to peace in Nigeria.
Gumi made the statement during an interview where he was responding to questions about his controversial position on engaging non-state actors, including armed groups and insurgents, as part of efforts to address the country’s growing insecurity challenges.
Gumi explains the necessity of dialogue and negotiation
When asked why he often appears to defend or engage perpetrators of violence, Sheikh Gumi clarified that his advocacy is not for the violent actors themselves but for Nigeria as a nation, to seek practical solutions for ongoing insecurity issues.
“I’m not advocating for them. I’m advocating for Nigeria, so that we can see how to tackle this menace,” he said, stressing that dialogue and negotiation are tools to manage threats that conventional military force cannot easily resolve.
He pointed out that insecurity has worsened across Nigeria, citing examples such as mass kidnappings of children in Kebbi State, growing fear among residents in Kwara and Bauchi, and the presence of heavily armed outlaws capable of destabilising communities and regions.
According to Gumi, relying solely on military force to tackle these groups is unrealistic and often ineffective, stating: “You want a military that is trained to fight a guerilla? Even America, Afghanistan, Israel did not succeed. No army is designed to defeat guerilla warfare.”
Historical examples of reconciliation in Nigeria
To further justify his stance, Sheikh Gumi referenced historical instances where Nigerian leaders embraced reconciliation and forgiveness as a strategy for national cohesion. He cited former President Shehu Shagari, who granted amnesty to Odumegwu Ojukwu after the Nigerian Civil War, and President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, who pursued national reconciliation initiatives during his tenure.
He argued that Nigeria must consider non-kinetic approaches and seize opportunities for peaceful resolution whenever individuals or groups express willingness to lay down their arms. “Since we have people ready to lay down their arms, why must it always be kinetic?” Gumi remarked, underlining the importance of exploring dialogue and amnesty where feasible.
Specific stance on Nnamdi Kanu
Speaking directly about Nnamdi Kanu, the IPOB leader currently imprisoned for terrorism-related charges, Sheikh Gumi highlighted the seriousness of Kanu’s past actions, including calls for attacks against Nigerian soldiers. However, he reiterated his position that if Kanu demonstrates genuine remorse and publicly calls for peace, he would personally lead the effort to seek a pardon and amnesty for him.
“Kanu is in prison for terrorism. He said our soldiers should be killed. But if this same Kanu shows remorse and calls for peace, honestly, I will be at the forefront of calling for his pardon and amnesty,” Gumi emphasized, highlighting his belief in the power of forgiveness and reconciliation to help stabilise the nation.
Public and social media reactions
Gumi’s comments have once again sparked debate on social media, with Nigerians expressing mixed reactions. Some praised the cleric for advocating peaceful solutions and dialogue with non-state actors, while others questioned the appropriateness of negotiating with individuals involved in violent activities. The discussion reflects the broader tension between security, justice, and reconciliation in addressing Nigeria’s complex insurgency challenges.
Supporters of the cleric argue that his approach is grounded in historical precedent and could prevent further bloodshed, while critics warn against undermining the rule of law by offering amnesty prematurely.
Sheikh Gumi’s statement continues to dominate online conversations, highlighting the ongoing national debate about the best strategies to restore peace and security in Nigeria while balancing justice and reconciliation.
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If Namdi Kanu shows remorse and calls for peace, I will be at the forefront in calling for his pardoning and amnesty for him, says Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, Islamic cleric.#CTVTweets#TheMorningBrief pic.twitter.com/BwT3g8XnBZ
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