Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang has announced the absolute release of 130 prisoners held across various custodial centres throughout the state.
He also commuted four death sentences to life imprisonment.
The governor announced the exercise of his prerogative of mercy on Thursday as part of activities marking Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary.
Mutfwang, in a goodwill message to Plateau citizens and Nigerians at home and in the Diaspora, said the decision followed due consultation with the State Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy.
“In exercising the powers conferred upon him by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as amended, Governor Mutfwang after due consultation with the State Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy, has granted absolute pardon to 130 inmates, while four inmates serving death sentence had their sentences reduced to life imprisonment,” read a statement announcing the development.
The governor, however, said the Independence anniversary provided an opportunity for Nigerians to reflect on the nation’s journey and honour the sacrifices of past leaders.
He said it was also a time to “acknowledge the challenges confronting the nation, celebrate its achievements and renew their collective faith in the promise of a stronger, united and prosperous Nigeria.”
Mutfwang urged Nigerians to honour the legacy of the nation’s founding fathers by preserving the unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity of the country.
According to him, “the responsibility of nation-building has passed from one generation to another and every citizen has a role to play in building a peaceful, stable and prosperous country.”
The governor said, “Nigeria’s strength lies in the collective determination of its citizens to rise above differences and build a nation in which every citizen has a sense of belonging and an opportunity to fulfil his or her aspirations.”
He also acknowledged the efforts of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in sustaining the unity and stability of the country and advancing the Nigerian project.
Mutfwang urged the people of the state to “keep faith in the Nigerian project despite the challenges confronting the nation”.
He wished Nigerians at home and in the Diaspora a peaceful, meaningful and memorable 66th Independence Anniversary.
What You Should Know
Governor Caleb Mutfwang exercised his constitutional powers of the prerogative of mercy to release 130 inmates and reduce four death row sentences to life imprisonment as part of activities marking Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary.
- Positive Impact: This decision offers a second chance to reformed inmates, helps decongest overcrowded correctional facilities in Plateau State, and promotes social reintegration during a period of national celebration.
- Potential Concerns: Public safety remains a consideration for local communities, though the releases were reportedly vetted and advised by the State Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy.
