Kaduna-based Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has opposed legislative calls to execute repentant terrorists and secessionists. Writing on Facebook, Gumi argued that killing surrendered individuals violates international law and religious tenets, rebelling against a parliamentary push to end state-backed rehabilitation programs.

The cleric argued that executing repentant insurgents, secessionists, or prisoners of war is morally wrong and fundamentally violates both religious doctrines and international legal principles. He warned that the International Criminal Court (ICC) is actively monitoring these actions, urging stakeholders to carefully weigh the severe legal and spiritual consequences of such decisions.

Gumi maintained that adopting the brutal tactics of terrorist groups by killing perceived enemies completely undermines a nation’s moral authority. According to the cleric, mirroring the behavior of insurgents does nothing to help win conflicts or restore peace.

Instead, he cautioned that raw emotions must not be allowed to dictate state policy or strategic decisions in the ongoing fight against insecurity. He emphasized that adherence to established legal standards and moral principles is essential for achieving a lasting resolution.

Gumi said: “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.”

The Senate had, during plenary on Tuesday, resolved that persons found culpable in terrorism and other organised criminal offences should face immediate prosecution rather than rehabilitation, insisting that justice must be seen to be done to restore public confidence in the country’s criminal justice system.

The resolution was adopted as part of measures aimed at addressing the worsening security situation across Nigeria.