Table of Contents
- Gumi's Statement on the Pardon
- Presidential Pardon Revoked
- Sanda's Remorse and Family Forgiveness
- Islamic Perspective on Forgiveness
Controversial Islamic cleric Ahmad Gumi has stated that the presidential pardon granted to Maryam Sanda, who was convicted in 2020 and sentenced to death for the murder of her husband, Bilyaminu Bello, is the most appropriate course of action.
According to DAILY POST, President Tinubu previously granted clemency to Sanda and 174 other convicts, including drug traffickers, kidnappers, and fraudsters.
However, in response to public outcry, the President announced on Wednesday, through his media aide Bayo Onanuga, that the presidential pardon had been revoked.
Nonetheless, Sanda's sentence was commuted to 12 years in prison on "compassionate grounds in the interest of the children."
In response, Gumi took to Facebook, stating that Sanda's feelings of remorse after killing her husband indicate that it was the "work of Shaytan."
He remarked, "They said she stabbed him, then broke down crying over his body. Do you see? That is the work of Shaytan."
"When she was pardoned, people began to speak without understanding; they do not grasp the ruling on forgiveness in Islamic law."
"The family of the deceased stated, 'We have forgiven her.' May Allah protect us all. Ameen."
The Islamic scholar elaborated that the act of forgiveness granted by the victim’s family is both lawful and spiritually commendable.
"In Islam, when the family of the victim forgives, it is not a sign of weakness; it is an act of mercy, and mercy is more cherished by Allah than revenge."
"Maryam Sanda’s execution would not have been the right course of action. The presidential pardon she received was the appropriate decision. In Islam, justice is not fueled by anger but is based on balance and compassion," he concluded.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the reason for Maryam Sanda’s initial conviction?
Maryam Sanda was convicted in 2020 for the murder of her husband, Bilyaminu Bello, and sentenced to death.
Why was the presidential pardon revoked?
The presidential pardon was revoked following public outrage and backlash regarding the clemency granted to Sanda and other convicts.
What is Ahmad Gumi's perspective on forgiveness in Islamic law?
Ahmad Gumi believes that forgiveness granted by the victim's family is a lawful and spiritually superior act in Islam, emphasizing that mercy is more valued than vengeance.



