Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmad Gumi says he will support calls for the release of convicted IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu—but only if Kanu shows genuine remorse.
Kanu was convicted last Thursday on seven terrorism charges by the Federal High Court in Abuja and sentenced to life imprisonment.
Speaking in an interview with Channels TV, Gumi said he would join those advocating for Kanu’s pardon if the IPOB leader demonstrates repentance for his actions and statements.
“This Kanu who was jailed for terrorism and for inciting people against our soldiers—if he now shows remorse and calls for peace, honestly, I will be at the forefront of pushing for his pardon and amnesty,” Gumi said.
He cited past examples, noting that former President Shehu Shagari granted amnesty to Chukwuemeka Ojukwu, while the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua offered amnesty to Niger Delta militants who had also been involved in violent activities.
Gumi, a consistent advocate for non-kinetic approaches to security challenges—particularly in northern Nigeria—insists that such strategies will ultimately benefit the country.
