Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang has granted pardon to 130 inmates as part of the state's Independence Day activities. This move is part of Mutfwang's constitutional powers, exercised after consulting the Plateau State Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy. The decision was announced in a statement issued by the governor's Director of Press and Public Affairs, Dr. Gyang Bere.
The four inmates whose death sentences were commuted to life imprisonment are Zuhumnan Musa, Jeremiah Aese, Pam Lang, and Thoma Danboyi. Other inmates 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. This is the largest batch of inmates Mutfwang has pardoned since taking office.
In a statement, Mutfwang reflected on Nigeria's progress since independence, calling on citizens to protect the country's unity and sovereignty. He described nation-building as a responsibility passed down through generations. The governor emphasized that Nigeria's strength comes from its citizens' willingness to look past their differences and build a country where everyone feels they belong and can pursue their own ambitions.
Mutfwang praised President Bola Tinubu for sustaining national cohesion and pushing economic development, describing it as part of a shared responsibility to move the country forward. He also commended Plateau residents for their resilience and patriotism, restating his administration's commitment to peace, security, and inclusive development in the state.
The governor's decision to pardon the inmates and commute the death sentences is seen as a gesture of goodwill during the Independence Day celebrations. This move is expected to bring hope to the pardoned inmates and their families, as well as to the community at large.
Mutfwang's previous Independence Day gestures involved far smaller numbers, including four pardons in 2023. This year's pardon is significant, as it marks a substantial gesture of mercy by the governor. The pardoned inmates and those whose sentences were commuted will be released from prison, starting a new chapter in their lives.
The governor extended his Independence Day wishes to Nigerians at home and abroad, urging continued faith in the country's future. He called on citizens to remain committed to the country's progress, emphasizing the importance of working together to build a better Nigeria for all.
Key points
- 130 inmates were pardoned by Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang as part of Nigeria's 66th Independence Day celebrations.
- Four death sentences were commuted to life imprisonment for inmates Zuhumnan Musa, Jeremiah Aese, Pam Lang, and Thoma Danboyi.
- The governor's decision was made under his constitutional powers, after consulting the Plateau State Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy.
