Adamawa and Plateau governors grant freedom to 139 inmates for Nigeria’s Independence Day

The governors of Adamawa and Plateau states have granted freedom to a combined 139 inmates as part of Nigeria’s 66th Independence Day commemorations. Adamawa Governor Umaru Fintiri pardoned and discharged nine inmates, according to a statement from his chief press secretary. The inmates were held at custodial centres in Jos, Numan, Jimeta, Ganye, Guyuk, Yola and Kojoli.

Fintiri also commuted the death sentence of Saidu Abdullahi, held at Yola Old Custodial Centre, to life imprisonment. The decision followed advice from the Advisory Committee on the Prerogative of Mercy and was made under Section 212(1)(d) of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution, as amended. The governor ordered the releases after legal formalities were completed with the Nigerian Correctional Service.

The pardons and commutation took immediate effect. In Plateau, Governor Caleb Mutfwang granted freedom to 130 inmates, according to an announcement in his Independence Day goodwill message. He also reduced the death sentences of Zuhumnan Musa, Jeremiah Aese, Pam Lang and Thoma Danboyi to life imprisonment.

Both governors presented the measures as part of the anniversary and used their messages to call for national unity and resilience. Fintiri paid tribute to independence-era leaders and commended military and security personnel for their service amid continuing security challenges. Fintiri also said no project started by his administration would be abandoned and pledged to complete ongoing infrastructure work in Adamawa.

Mutfwang said nation-building required citizens to preserve Nigeria’s unity and give people a sense of belonging and opportunity. The governors acknowledged economic and social difficulties facing Nigerians while expressing optimism about the country’s future. Mutfwang also commended President Bola Tinubu’s emphasis on national cohesion, peace and economic development.