Gumi opposes killing of repentant terrorists

Prominent Islamic cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, has cautioned against the killing of repentant insurgents, secessionists and prisoners of war, insisting that such actions are contrary to both Islamic teachings and international law.

Gumi, in a post on his verified Facebook page, argued that individuals who have surrendered or renounced violence should be treated in accordance with the law rather than subjected to extrajudicial punishment. Blueprint reports

The cleric stressed that justice must be guided by morality, due process and the rule of law rather than emotions or sentiments.

Calls for adherence to legal principles

According to Gumi, the treatment of repentant insurgents and prisoners of war is clearly spelt out in both religious and international legal frameworks.

He warned that any action outside these provisions could amount to a violation of international humanitarian law and attract global scrutiny.

“Killing repentant insurgents and secessionists is against religious and international law. So also prisoners of war. ICC is listening if you don’t fear Allah. Where is morality? It’s the same logic terrorists employ to kill all others besides them. Emotions don’t win a war,” he wrote.

The cleric further argued that the pursuit of justice should not be driven by vengeance, noting that societies emerging from conflict must balance accountability with reconciliation and respect for human rights.

Senate seeks end to rehabilitation programme

Gumi’s remarks came just days after the Senate called on the Federal Government to discontinue the rehabilitation of repentant terrorists and instead prosecute individuals found guilty of terrorism and other organised criminal activities.

The upper legislative chamber had argued that the continued rehabilitation and reintegration of former insurgents without prosecution could undermine public confidence in the nation’s justice system.

Lawmakers maintained that those involved in acts of terrorism and banditry should face the full weight of the law to serve as a deterrent to others and ensure justice for victims of insurgency.

The Senate’s position has reignited public debate over the Federal Government’s deradicalisation and reintegration programmes for former insurgents.

Divided opinions

Gumi’s latest intervention has further divided public opinion on how Nigeria should deal with repentant insurgents.

While some Nigerians support the rehabilitation and reintegration programme, arguing that it encourages fighters to surrender and abandon violence, others insist that individuals implicated in terrorism and mass killings should be prosecuted.

Supporters of prosecution contend that allowing former insurgents to return to society without facing justice sends the wrong message and could embolden criminal elements.

On the other hand, advocates of rehabilitation argue that deradicalisation programmes have played a role in weakening insurgent groups by encouraging defections and reducing the number of active fighters.

Security experts have also pointed out that many countries emerging from prolonged conflicts have adopted a combination of prosecution, rehabilitation and reconciliation measures to restore peace and rebuild communities.

Gumi’s previous interventions

Sheikh Gumi has remained one of the most vocal clerics on issues relating to insecurity in northern Nigeria.

Over the years, he has repeatedly called for dialogue, negotiation and non-kinetic approaches in addressing insurgency and banditry.

His positions on engaging armed groups and advocating rehabilitation for repentant fighters have often generated controversy and attracted criticism from some quarters.

However, the cleric has consistently maintained that military action alone cannot end insecurity and that efforts should also be directed towards addressing the root causes of violent extremism.

Debate over justice and reconciliation

The debate over how to handle repentant insurgents has become increasingly significant as the country continues to battle terrorism, banditry and other forms of organised crime.

Analysts say the challenge before the government is finding the right balance between justice for victims and measures aimed at encouraging combatants to lay down their arms.

They also note that any policy adopted must be guided by the Constitution, international obligations and the need to ensure lasting peace and national security.

As discussions continue, Gumi’s latest comments have once again brought to the fore the difficult questions surrounding accountability, reconciliation and the best approach to ending years of insurgency and violence in the country.

For now, the issue remains a contentious one, with Nigerians sharply divided on whether repentant insurgents should be rehabilitated, prosecuted or subjected to a combination of both measures.