In commemoration of Nigeria's 66th independence anniversary, Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State has exercised his power of Prerogative of Mercy under Section 212 of the 1999 Constitution. He approved the pardon, release, and commutation of sentences of 13 inmates of the Nigerian Correctional Centres in Enugu State. This decision was made in consultation with the Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy, Enugu State.
The beneficiaries of the governor's mercy include Kenneth Ozioko, Moses Saliyat, Promise Ndudim Olung, Chijioke Ugwu, Samuel Ani, and Eugene Odo. Others are Celsus Emeachi, Caleb Jatto, Calistus Eze, Gabriel Onu, Timothy Ani, Ernest Okeke, and Ejike Nwodo. The governor's approval was conveyed to the Comptroller, Nigerian Correctional Service, Enugu State Command by the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Osinachi Nnajieze.
While some of the inmates were pardoned and released, others had their death sentence commuted to life imprisonment. The governor's decision was based on reports of ill health and proven reform in character. The Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy, chaired by the State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, recommended the inmates to the governor.
The Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy comprises representatives of the Nigerian Correctional Service, Carmelite Prisoners Interest Organisation (CAPIO), and the Catholic Institute for Development, Justice and Peace (CIDJAP), among other reputable bodies in the justice sector. The council plays a crucial role in advising the governor on the exercise of his Prerogative of Mercy.
Section 212 of the 1999 Constitution grants the governor the power to grant pardons, respite, or commute sentences. The governor's powers under this section must be exercised after consultation with an advisory council of the state on the prerogative of mercy. The governor's decision to pardon the inmates is a demonstration of his commitment to upholding the principles of justice and mercy.
The pardon and commutation of sentences by Governor Mbah are seen as a positive step towards decongesting the correctional facilities in Enugu State. The governor's action is also expected to bring hope and relief to the families of the beneficiaries. The inmates who were pardoned and released are expected to reintegrate into society and start anew.
Governor Mbah's decision to pardon the inmates is a reflection of his administration's commitment to promoting justice and rehabilitation. The governor's action is also in line with the United Nations' emphasis on rehabilitation and restorative justice. The pardon and commutation of sentences are expected to have a positive impact on the lives of the beneficiaries and their families.
Key points
- Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State has pardoned, released, and commuted sentences of 13 inmates in celebration of Nigeria's 66th independence anniversary.
