By Ade Oyeyemi
Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, has granted an absolute pardon to 134 inmates as part of activities marking Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary.
Mutfwang also commuted the death sentences of four inmates to life imprisonment as part of the exercise carried out under the constitutional prerogative of mercy.
The governor announced the decision in his Independence Day address to the people of the state on Thursday.
According to him, the gesture followed consultations with the Plateau State Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy.
Mutfwang said the decision was guided by considerations of justice, humanity and the need to give deserving inmates an opportunity to rebuild their lives.
In a goodwill message signed by his Director of Press Affairs, Bere Gyang, the governor said the beneficiaries had demonstrated remorse and good conduct during their incarceration.
He added that several of the inmates had undertaken rehabilitation and reform programmes and distinguished themselves through their conduct.
The governor said the exercise was consistent with the values of compassion and rehabilitation, while also reflecting the importance of giving deserving individuals an opportunity for a fresh start.
The four inmates whose death sentences were commuted to life imprisonment were identified as Zuhumnan Musa, Jeremiah Aese, Pam Lang and Thoma Danboyi.
READ ALSO
- Nigeria@66: US hails Nigeria, pledges stronger partnership
- Nigeria@66: Atiku demands Kanu, El-Rufai, Zaria release, attacks Tinubu’s reforms
- Alausa directs Okebukola panel to begin 2026 ranking of tertiary institutions
- Nigeria@66: 2027 poll will test our democracy, says Jonathan
- Independence Day: Mutfwang pardons 134 inmates, commutes four death sentences
The governor’s gesture formed part of activities marking the 66th anniversary of Nigeria’s independence and was announced alongside his message on the significance of the occasion.
Mutfwang urged citizens to reflect on the country’s journey while remaining committed to justice, unity and the collective pursuit of a better Nigeria.
