"Work of the Devil" - Sheikh Gumi Slams Maryam Sanda's Reduced Prison Term

Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has commented on the reduced prison sentence of Maryam Sanda, who was initially sentenced to death for killing her husband in 2020. President Bola Tinubu had earlier announced a pardon for Sanda, but following public backlash, the pardon was revoked. However, her sentence was later reduced from death to 12 years imprisonment, taking into account her good conduct in prison, remorse, and the welfare of her two children.

Sheikh Gumi, reacting on Facebook, described Sanda’s remorse after the act as the work of Shaytan (Satan). He stated, "They said she stabbed him, then broke down crying over his body. Do you understand? That is the work of Shaytan."

He defended the decision to reduce her sentence, explaining that forgiveness in Islam is lawful and spiritually commendable when granted by the victim’s family. He emphasized that mercy is more beloved to Allah than vengeance, adding that justice in Islam is guided by balance and compassion rather than anger.

Despite this, some Nigerians criticized the decision, viewing it as rewarding criminality. The backlash prompted President Tinubu to withdraw the initial pardon list for review.

What do you think—was Maryam Sanda’s act the work of Shaytan? Share your thoughts in the comments.