Jigawa Governor Umar Namadi has granted pardon to 12 inmates serving various prison sentences, as part of activities marking Ramadan and the Eid al-Fitr celebration.
The development was disclosed in a statement issued by the State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Bello Abdulkadir Fanini, who explained that the decision followed recommendations from the Jigawa State Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy.
According to the statement, the governor exercised his powers under the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria, with the aim of promoting forgiveness, peace, and reintegration of the affected individuals into society.
Fanini noted that the move reflects the government’s commitment to unity and compassion, especially during a significant religious period.
He said, “Those pardoned exhibited good behaviour and have only a few months remaining to complete their sentences.”
The commissioner also urged the beneficiaries to maintain good conduct and avoid returning to criminal activities.
Those pardoned include Ibrahim Adamu Isa, Sa’idu Umar, Adamu Musa, Habibu Musa, Yusuf Ahmed, Shu’aibu Adamu, Abdullahi Ya’u, Yahaya Jana’u, Abdul Hamisu, Garba Miko, Salisu Isa, and Aliyu Ibrahim.
What you should know
The prerogative of mercy is a constitutional power that allows governors and the president to grant pardons to inmates under specific conditions.
Such decisions are often made during significant national or religious events as a gesture of compassion.
In this case, the Jigawa State Government emphasised rehabilitation and reintegration, focusing on inmates who demonstrated good behaviour and were close to completing their sentences, aiming to give them a second chance in society.
