Prominent Islamic scholar, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, has said he is willing to lead calls for the pardon and amnesty of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu — but only if Kanu shows genuine remorse and commits to peace.
Gumi made the remarks while responding to questions about his frequent advocacy for dialogue and non-military approaches in dealing with armed groups and non-state actors across the country.
Gumi: “I’m not defending criminals — I’m defending Nigeria”
The cleric explained that his position has always been to seek solutions that will reduce bloodshed and promote national stability.
According to him:
“I’m not advocating for them. I’m advocating for Nigeria, so that we can see how to tackle this menace.”
He noted that insecurity continues to spread rapidly, citing the recent kidnapping of schoolchildren in Kebbi, rising fear in Kwara and Bauchi, and the presence of heavily armed groups capable of destabilising entire communities.
“Military force alone cannot defeat guerrilla warfare”
Gumi argued that expecting the military to completely defeat insurgents through force alone is unrealistic.
He said:
“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.”
He insisted that Nigeria must combine military efforts with meaningful dialogue, especially when fighters voluntarily signal willingness to surrender.
Historical examples: Shagari, Yar’Adua embraced reconciliation
The cleric compared the current situation to past cases where the Nigerian government granted amnesty or forgiveness to resolve conflicts.
He cited the pardon granted to Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu by former President Shehu Shagari, and the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua’s move toward reconciliation during the Niger Delta crisis.
Condition for Supporting Amnesty for Nnamdi Kanu
Speaking directly on Kanu’s continued detention, Gumi said the IPOB leader was charged with terrorism and accused of making inflammatory statements, including calling for attacks on Nigerian soldiers.
However, he said he would personally advocate for Kanu’s pardon if the IPOB leader demonstrates remorse and chooses the path of peace.
His words:
“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.”
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