On October 1, 2026, Governor Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa State exercised his constitutional powers to pardon nine inmates serving various terms in correctional facilities across the state. This move was part of the activities marking Nigeria's 2026 Independence Day anniversary. The governor's decision was made pursuant to the powers conferred on him by Section 212(1)(d) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999, as amended.
According to a statement issued by Humwashi Wonosikou, Chief Press Secretary to the governor, on Thursday in Yola, the nine pardoned inmates are Abubakar Dajo, Zabadi Ayuba, Salvation Nyamso, Amir Idris, Mohammed Saidu, Yaro Sambo, Buhari Salisu, Urube Samuel, and Bamaiyi Amos. They were serving at various custodial centers, including the Maximum Security Custodial Centre in Jos, Numan Custodial Centre, Jimeta, Ganye, Guyuk, Yola Old, and Kojoli Custodial Centres.
In addition to the pardons, Governor Fintiri also approved the commutation of the death sentence imposed on an inmate, Saidu Abdullahi, of the Yola Old Custodial Centre, to life imprisonment. This decision was made following the advice of the Advisory Committee. The governor's prerogative of mercy was exercised in accordance with the Constitution, and the measures were taken to commemorate the 2026 Independence Day anniversary.
The pardon and commutation took immediate effect following the conclusion of all necessary legal formalities. This move by Governor Fintiri is seen as a gesture of mercy and a way to give the inmates a second chance at life. The governor's decision was made in his capacity as the leader of Adamawa State, and it is expected to bring relief to the families of the pardoned inmates.
The nine pardoned inmates were serving various terms for different crimes. Their pardons have been welcomed by their families and loved ones. The commutation of Saidu Abdullahi's death sentence to life imprisonment also raises questions about the justice system and the use of capital punishment in Nigeria.
Governor Fintiri's decision to pardon the inmates and commute the death sentence is not his first exercise of mercy. He has previously granted pardons to inmates and taken steps to reform the correctional system in Adamawa State. The governor's actions have been praised by some as a demonstration of his commitment to rehabilitation and restorative justice.
The pardons and commutation granted by Governor Fintiri are a significant development in the lead-up to Nigeria's 2026 Independence Day anniversary celebrations. The governor's actions have brought attention to the need for prison reforms and the importance of giving inmates a second chance at life.
Key points
- Governor Fintiri pardoned nine inmates serving various terms in correctional facilities across Adamawa State.
- The governor commuted the death sentence of an inmate, Saidu Abdullahi, to life imprisonment.
- The pardons and commutation were made pursuant to the powers conferred on the governor by Section 212(1)(d) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999, as amended.
