The Niger State Governor, Mohammed Bago, has approved an unconditional pardon for 11 inmates who were previously sentenced to death. The announcement was made on Tuesday by the state Attorney General and Commissioner of Justice, Nasiru Mu'azu.
According to the Commissioner, the pardoned inmates were involved in a communal clash between Gaba and Anfani communities in Lavun Local Government Area of Niger State. The conflict had resulted in significant loss of lives and property.
Beneficiaries of the Pardon
The 11 individuals who received the governor's pardon include Mohammed Mohammed, Nana Sheshi, Isah Nmadu, Mohammed Mohammed Ndabida, Abubakar Salihu, and Baba Shaba. Others are Adamu Babaminin, Haruna Mohammed, Isah Mohammed, Alhaji Inuwa, Ibrahim Mohammed, and Mohammed Isah.
Mu'azu emphasized that the decision to grant pardon was carefully considered after a thorough review by both Governor Bago and the State Advisory Committee on the Prerogative of Mercy.
Reconciliation Efforts
The Attorney General explained that the state pardon forms part of broader reconciliation efforts aimed at ensuring lasting peace between the Gaba and Anfani communities. He noted that several meetings had been held between the parties involved, and all outstanding issues have been resolved.
"The pardon is a significant step toward healing and rebuilding community relations in the affected area," the Commissioner stated.
Path to Clemency for Others
The Commissioner also extended an invitation to others in similar situations to seek clemency by submitting written requests to the appropriate authorities. This suggests the state government's openness to considering additional pardons under the right circumstances.
The official Instrument of Pardon was signed on May 28 and has been properly gazetted, making it a formal legal action by the state government.
