Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has stated that he is ready to champion the call for the pardon and amnesty of IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu but only if Kanu shows remorse and demonstrates genuine commitment to peace.
Gumi made this known while responding to questions about his controversial stance on engaging non-state actors and negotiating with armed groups.
Gumi explains why negotiation is necessary
When asked why he often appears to advocate for perpetrators of violence, he clarified:
“I’m not advocating for them. I’m advocating for Nigeria, so that we can see how to tackle this menace.”
He explained that insecurity is worsening nationwide, with children being kidnapped in Kebbi, fear spreading in Kwara and Bauchi, and outlaws operating in large numbers capable of destabilising the country.
According to him, relying strictly on military force is unrealistic:
“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: Shagari and Yar’Adua cited as precedent
Gumi argued that Nigeria must embrace non-kinetic approaches when opportunities arise:
“Since we have people ready to lay down their arms, why must it always be kinetic?”
He compared the situation to historical instances of forgiveness in Nigeria’s political history, noting that leaders like Shehu Shagari granted amnesty to Ojukwu, and Umaru Musa Yar’Adua also pursued reconciliation.
Speaking specifically on Nnamdi Kanu, he said:
“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.”
Watch the video below…
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
— Channels Television (@channelstv) November 25, 2025
