Nnamdi Kanu Can Be Freed Through Amnesty If He Repents, Says Sheikh Gumi

Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has stated that he is willing to champion the call for the release of IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu, but only on the condition that Kanu publicly demonstrates genuine remorse and commits himself to promoting peace.

Gumi made the statement while discussing Nigeria’s ongoing security challenges, arguing that dialogue and reconciliation remain critical tools in resolving long-standing conflicts across the country. According to Intelregion

According to him, Nigeria has relied too heavily on military action, even in situations where negotiation could yield better and more lasting results. He explained that many aggrieved groups are willing to embrace peace if the government adopts a non-kinetic strategy.

Gumi insisted that Kanu’s case should not be treated differently, provided he willingly takes a step toward reconciliation. In his words,

“If Kanu shows remorse and calls for peace, I will be at the forefront in calling for his pardon and amnesty.”

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Gumi argued that granting amnesty to repentant figures is not new in Nigeria’s history and has been used successfully with individuals and groups accused of violent or separatist actions in the past.

He referenced earlier administrations that extended clemency as part of broader peacebuilding efforts, noting that national healing often requires bold political decisions.

While stressing that he does not support violence or separatism, Gumi maintained that anyone who signals a true change of heart deserves an opportunity to rejoin society.

He added that the Nigerian government should focus more on resolving conflicts through engagement rather than escalation, emphasising that military force alone cannot solve ideological or ethnic grievances. His remarks reflect a growing call for political dialogue around the issues tied to Biafra agitation and national unity.

Nnamdi Kanu remains at the centre of intense national debate, with supporters viewing him as a voice for marginalisation in the Southeast, while critics argue that some of his past statements escalated regional tensions.

Gumi noted that even controversial leaders can become agents of peace if they are encouraged to embrace a reconciliatory path. He believes that if Kanu openly renounces violence and urges calm among his followers, a pathway to freedom may become possible through an amnesty process.

Gumi reiterated his readiness to personally advocate for Kanu’s release once the IPOB leader clearly commits himself to promoting peace. His message was direct:

“If he repents and appeals for calm, I will stand for his pardon.”

He described this approach as a practical step toward reducing nationwide tensions and fostering unity at a time when Nigeria urgently needs healing and dialogue.