As part of Nigeria's 66th Independence Anniversary celebrations, Plateau State Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang has granted an absolute pardon to 130 inmates. This move is part of the governor's efforts to mark the significant occasion, which provides an opportunity for Nigerians to reflect on their nation's journey since independence. The governor felicitated with Plateau citizens and Nigerians at home and in the Diaspora on the anniversary, describing it as a moment to honour the sacrifices of past leaders and acknowledge the challenges confronting the nation.
In a goodwill message signed by his Director of Press and Public Affairs, Dr Gyang Bere, Governor Mutfwang urged Nigerians to preserve the country's unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. He emphasized that every citizen has a role to play in building a peaceful, stable, and prosperous country. The governor reaffirmed that Nigeria's strength lies in the collective determination of its citizens to rise above differences and build a nation where every citizen has a sense of belonging and an opportunity to fulfil their aspirations.
Governor Mutfwang commended President Bola Tinubu for his efforts in sustaining the unity and stability of the country and advancing the Nigerian project. He praised the president's emphasis on national cohesion, peace, economic development, and the collective responsibility of Nigerians to build a stronger nation. The governor also acknowledged the resilience, patience, patriotism, and contributions of the people of Plateau State to the development of the state and the nation.
The governor's administration remains committed to building a Plateau State where citizens can pursue their aspirations in an atmosphere of peace, security, justice, and inclusive development. He exercised the powers conferred upon him by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, granting absolute pardon to 130 inmates after due consultation with the State Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy. Four inmates serving death sentences had their sentences reduced to life imprisonment.
The four inmates whose death sentences were commuted to life imprisonment are Zuhumnan Musa, Jeremiah Aese, Pam Lang, and Thoma Danboyi. Others granted absolute pardon include Kamshine Gomerep, Maju Sajen, Jan Thomas, Gody Victor, Imran Maikasuwa, Biplang Emmanuel, Peace Sunday, Salisu Usman, Geoffrey John, and Shwarpo Luka, among others. The governor wished Nigerians a peaceful, meaningful, and memorable 66th Independence Anniversary.
Governor Mutfwang urged all citizens to continue to believe in Nigeria and contribute their quota towards building a nation worthy of the sacrifices of its heroes past and the aspirations of generations yet unborn. He emphasized the importance of collective responsibility in nation-building and encouraged Nigerians to work together to overcome the challenges facing the country.
The governor's decision to grant pardon to 130 inmates and commute the death sentences of four others to life imprisonment is a significant gesture towards promoting peace and unity in Plateau State. The move is expected to bring hope and relief to the families of the pardoned inmates and demonstrate the governor's commitment to upholding the principles of justice and mercy.
Key points
- - 130 inmates were granted absolute pardon by Plateau State Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang. - Four inmates serving death sentences had their sentences reduced to life imprisonment. - The governor's decision is part of the celebrations marking Nigeria's 66th Independence Anniversary.
