Islamic scholar Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has said he is willing to lead the campaign for the release and pardon of IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu but only if Kanu expresses remorse and proves he is committed to peace.
Gumi revealed this while addressing questions about his often-criticised approach of engaging non-state actors and negotiating with armed groups.
Gumi clarifies his stance on negotiation
Responding to concerns that he frequently appears to defend violent offenders, he explained:
“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 escalate across the country from child abductions in Kebbi to rising fear in states like Kwara and Bauchi with heavily armed groups capable of destabilising the nation.
According to Gumi, relying solely on military action is impractical:
“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 cites past leaders who chose reconciliation
Gumi argued that Nigeria should take advantage of chances for peaceful solutions whenever they arise:
“Since we have people ready to lay down their arms, why must it always be kinetic?”
He pointed to previous administrations such as those of Shehu Shagari and Umaru Musa Yar’Adua who adopted forgiveness and reconciliation as national strategies.
On Nnamdi Kanu
Addressing Kanu’s case directly, 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.”
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