Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani has granted clemency to 27 inmates in correctional facilities across the state to mark Nigeria's 66th Independence anniversary. This move aims to give deserving inmates the opportunity to rebuild their lives. The clemency is part of the governor's effort to extend mercy to eligible inmates on national occasions.
According to a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Culture, Ahmed Maiyaki, the latest clemency brings the number of beneficiaries to more than 500 since Governor Sani assumed office. The statement quoted the State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Sir James Kanyip, as saying that previous exercises were carried out on New Year's Day, during Democracy Day and Independence Day celebrations.
The intervention included the release of eligible inmates as well as the payment of fines and compensation of over N300 million for victims since 2023. The payment of fines and compensation is intended to give the clemency a restorative justice dimension by addressing barriers to the release of deserving inmates while recognising the interests of victims.
The State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Sir James Kanyip, said the prerogative of mercy was exercised through established processes, taking into consideration accountability, rehabilitation and the responsibilities that come with freedom. The beneficiaries were expected to return to society with a renewed sense of responsibility and appreciation of their obligations to others.
The statement said the interventions were based on the belief that public safety, human dignity, rehabilitation and the possibility of redemption should form part of the administration of justice. This approach aims to ensure that clemency goes beyond freeing inmates from custody, as it also provides an opportunity for beneficiaries to reconnect with their families and communities.
The administration would continue to support rehabilitation, reconciliation and the reintegration of deserving inmates into society. According to the statement, the government remains committed to a justice system that protects society, respects victims' interests and gives deserving individuals an opportunity to become responsible and productive members of their communities.
The clemency exercise reflects the government's efforts to balance punishment with compassion and rehabilitation. By granting clemency to deserving inmates, the government aims to promote a more humane and restorative approach to justice, while also ensuring public safety and respect for victims' rights.
Key points
- Governor Uba Sani grants clemency to 27 inmates in Kaduna State to mark Nigeria's 66th Independence anniversary.
- The clemency brings the total number of beneficiaries to over 500 since Governor Sani assumed office.
- The intervention includes the payment of fines and compensation of over N300 million for victims since 2023.
