Nigerian Gov pardons 11 inmates

In a move to promote justice reform and ease prison overcrowding, Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah, has granted clemency to 11 inmates across the state’s correctional facilities.

The announcement was made on Sunday, June 16, by the Governor’s Senior Special Assistant on External Relations, Uche Anichukwu.

According to Anichukwu, the decision reflects the governor’s commitment to giving reformed inmates a second chance at rebuilding their lives as responsible members of society. He noted that the act of clemency is part of broader efforts by the administration to strengthen the justice system and support rehabilitation initiatives within the state.

The released inmates were formally handed over to the Enugu State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Kingsley Udeh, by the Governor’s Chief of Staff, Victor Udeh.

According to Mr Anichukwu, the beneficiaries are Ugochukwu Oma, Onah Nnamdi, Chiadikobi Onu, Emmanuel Sambo, Emeka Nyia, Ngene Oluebube, Francis Chinecherem, Eze Chigozie, Anthony Tombari, Francis Chibuzor, and Uzoma Nnaoche.

He explained that the governor’s decision was an exercise of his Prerogative of Mercy powers under Section 212 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).

Mr Anichukwu said, “It was also in consultation with the Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy. The decision was in concordance with reports of proven reform in character and ability to reintegrate with society, having possessed or learnt some productive skills.

“It followed the recommendations by the correctional services and the Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy, chaired by the state attorney general and commissioner for justice.

“The Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy draws membership from the Nigerian Correctional Service, Carmelite Prisoners Interest Organisation (CAPIO), the Catholic Institute for Development, Justice and Peace (CIDJAP), among other reputable justice sector institutions.”

(NAN)