Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, has exercised his constitutional powers to grant unconditional state pardon to eleven individuals who were previously sentenced to death for murder charges stemming from a communal clash.
The Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Barr. Nasiru Mu'azu, announced this development during a press briefing at the Government House in Minna. He confirmed that the Instrument of Pardon was officially signed on May 28, 2025, and has been properly gazetted.
Background of the Communal Conflict
According to the Commissioner, the pardoned individuals were involved in a violent communal clash between Gaba and Amfani communities in Lavun local government area. The conflict had resulted in significant loss of lives and property damage, leading to their conviction and death sentences.
"The state pardon is in exercise of the constitutional power of the Governor. The decision was taken following a written request which was further reviewed between the Governor and the State Advisory Committee on the Prerogative of Mercy," Mu'azu explained.
Peace and Reconciliation Efforts
The Commissioner emphasized that the pardons form part of broader reconciliation efforts aimed at ensuring lasting peace between the previously conflicting communities. He noted that several meetings have been conducted and all outstanding issues have been successfully resolved.
When questioned about similar cases, Mu'azu advised other communities or individuals seeking pardons to submit formal written requests for consideration by the state government.
The Pardoned Individuals
The eleven beneficiaries of the governor's clemency include Mohammed Mohammed, Nana Alhaji Sheshi, Isah Baba Nmadu, Mohammed Mohammed Ndabida, Abubakar Baba Salihu, and Baba Mohammed Shaba.
Others who received the pardon are Adamu Mohammed Babaminin, Haruna Mohammed, Isah Mohammed Alhaji Inuwa, Ibrahim Mohammed, and Mohammed Isah.
This executive clemency represents a significant development in Niger State's approach to resolving longstanding community conflicts through both judicial and reconciliatory measures.
