By Isiaka Mustapha, Editor-in-Chief

Adamawa State Governor, Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, has granted pardon to nine inmates serving various prison terms in correctional facilities within and outside the state as part of activities marking Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary.

The governor also commuted the death sentence of Saidu Abdullahi, an inmate of the Yola Old Custodial Centre, to life imprisonment.

The decision followed the recommendation of the Adamawa State Advisory Committee on the Prerogative of Mercy and was made in exercise of the powers conferred on the governor under Section 212(1)(d) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as amended.

A statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Humwashi Wonosikou, said the gesture formed part of activities commemorating Nigeria’s Independence Day celebration and reflected the administration’s commitment to justice, mercy and rehabilitation.

The beneficiaries of the pardon include Abubakar Dajo of the Maximum Security Custodial Centre, Jos; Zabadi Ayuba and Salvation Nyamso of the Numan Custodial Centre; as well as Amir Idris, Mohammed Saidu, Yaro Sambo, Buhari Salisu, Urube Samuel and Bamaiyi Amos, who were serving sentences at the Jimeta, Ganye, Guyuk, Yola Old and Kojoli custodial centres.

According to the statement, the pardon and commutation take immediate effect upon the completion of all necessary legal and administrative procedures with the Nigerian Correctional Service.

The governor expressed hope that the beneficiaries would embrace the opportunity for a fresh start and become responsible members of society, while reaffirming his administration’s commitment to promoting justice, fairness and the rule of law.

The development means that the nine pardoned inmates will regain their freedom, while Abdullahi’s sentence has been reduced from capital punishment to life imprisonment.