Plateau governor pardons 130 inmates and commutes four death sentences

Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang has granted absolute pardons to 130 inmates and commuted the death sentences of four others to life imprisonment, according to a statement issued by his Director of Press and Public Affairs, Gyang Bere. The announcement was made on Thursday as Nigeria marked its 66th Independence Anniversary. The governor said the occasion should prompt reflection on the country’s history, the sacrifices of earlier leaders and the challenges facing the nation.

The four inmates whose sentences were reduced are Zuhumnan Musa, Jeremiah Aese, Pam Lang and Thoma Danboyi. The statement also listed several people among those granted absolute pardon, including Kamshine Gomerep, Maju Sajen, Jan Thomas, Gody Victor, Imran Maikasuwa, Biplang Emmanuel, Peace Sunday, Salisu Usman, Geoffrey John and Shwarpo Luka. The governor’s office said the decisions were taken under powers conferred by the Nigerian Constitution, as amended, and followed consultation with the State Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy.

In his anniversary message, Mutfwang urged citizens to preserve Nigeria’s unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity. He said nation-building was a responsibility shared across generations and called on residents to help create a peaceful, stable and prosperous country. Mutfwang also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to building a Plateau State where citizens could pursue their aspirations in an environment of peace, security, justice and inclusive development.

He praised residents for their resilience, patience and contributions to the state and national development. The governor further commended President Bola Tinubu’s emphasis on national cohesion, peace and economic development. He urged Nigerians to maintain faith in the country despite the difficulties confronting it.