Gumi sets condition for Nnamdi Kanu’s release

Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has said he will support calls for the release of IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu, but only if the secessionist shows remorse for his past actions.

Kanu was recently convicted on seven counts of terrorism by the Federal High Court in Abuja. Speaking on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief on Tuesday, Gumi stated that if Kanu expresses regret and calls for peace, he would be among those advocating for his pardon and amnesty.

“This Kanu that was imprisoned for terrorism for agitating that our soldiers should be killed, if he now shows remorse and calls for peace, I will be at the forefront in asking for his pardon and amnesty,” Gumi said.

He recalled that past Nigerian leaders, including Shehu Shagari and Umaru Yar’Adua, granted amnesty to rebels and militants, stressing that such measures could help resolve conflicts peacefully.

Gumi, a long-time advocate of non-kinetic solutions to insecurity, argued that dialogue with armed groups would benefit the nation. “Even America could not succeed in Afghanistan, even Israel could not succeed in a small strip of land. Our army is not designed for this type of conflict,” he said.

He further urged the government to engage groups inclined to peace, noting that some Fulani herdsmen had shown willingness to lay down arms. “Anybody who inclines to peace, I’m with him,” Gumi added.