Islamic scholar Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has publicly opposed demands to execute former insurgents and secessionists who have renounced their activities. He stated that such measures contradict both international legal standards and religious doctrines.
Sharing his views on Facebook, Gumi responded to recent pressure from Nigerian lawmakers who asked the Federal Government to halt rehabilitation programs for surrendered terrorists in favor of direct prosecution. The cleric argued that targeting individuals who have surrendered or were taken as prisoners of war is ethically indefensible.
Gumi cautioned that the International Criminal Court is closely monitoring these developments. He warned proponents of execution to reflect on the potential legal and moral repercussions. He further asserted that adopting the lethal tactics used by insurgent groups only serves to degrade national morality rather than resolving security challenges.
Emphasizing that tactical decisions should remain separate from emotional impulses, Gumi concluded that relying on violence as a primary solution mirrors the mindset of extremist organizations and will not succeed in ending regional conflicts.
