Islamic cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, has reiterated his support for a non-kinetic strategy in addressing Nigeria’s security challenges, declaring that he would champion calls for the release of IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu—but only if Kanu demonstrates genuine remorse.
Kanu, who was convicted by the Federal High Court in Abuja on seven counts of terrorism, has long remained a controversial figure. However, Gumi believes a path to reconciliation is possible if the IPOB leader publicly renounces his past actions and embraces peace.
Speaking with newsmen the cleric said: “This Kanu that was imprisoned for terrorism for agitating that our soldiers should be killed—if he now shows remorse and calls for peace, honestly, I will be at the forefront of those advocating for his pardon and amnesty.”
Gumi noted that Nigeria has a history of granting state pardon to individuals once considered enemies of the state.
He recalled how former President Shehu Shagari pardoned Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, leader of the Biafran secession, and how President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua offered amnesty to Niger Delta militants.“This is who we are as a nation,” he said.
The cleric, a vocal advocate for dialogue with armed groups—particularly in northern Nigeria—insisted that non-military engagement remains the most effective way to restore peace.
His remarks come amid rising insecurity across the country. In recent weeks, mass abductions of schoolchildren and worshippers have rattled several states, heightening public anxiety.
President Bola Tinubu has directed security agencies to pursue the perpetrators aggressively, but critics argue that the government’s response has not gone far enough, calling it insufficient in the face of growing threats.
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