Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang has granted absolute pardon to 130 inmates and reduced the death sentences of four others to life imprisonment as part of activities marking Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary.
Mutfwang announced the exercise of his prerogative of mercy in his Independence Day message to the people of Plateau State and Nigerians at home and abroad on Thursday.
According to the governor, the decision was taken after consultation with the Plateau State Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy. The exercise was carried out under the constitutional powers vested in the governor.
“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,” he said.
The four inmates whose death sentences were commuted to life imprisonment were identified as Zuhumnan Musa, Jeremiah Aese, Pam Lang and Thoma Danboyi.
The governor used his Independence Day message to call on Nigerians to reflect on the country’s journey since gaining independence in 1960, while remembering the sacrifices made by past leaders.
Mutfwang said the anniversary should also be used to recognise the challenges facing the country and renew efforts towards building a united and prosperous Nigeria.
He urged Nigerians to protect the country’s unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity, describing nation-building as a responsibility that must be passed from one generation to another.
The governor also acknowledged the efforts of President Bola Tinubu towards sustaining national unity and stability, particularly his emphasis on national cohesion, peace and economic development.
Mutfwang further reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to creating a peaceful and secure environment in Plateau State where residents can pursue their ambitions and participate in the state’s development.
He praised Plateau residents for what he described as their resilience, patience and contributions to the development of the state and Nigeria.
“I urge you to keep faith in the Nigerian project despite the challenges confronting the nation,” the governor said.
He also called on Nigerians to remain committed to the country’s development and contribute to building a society that reflects the sacrifices of past generations.
“Let us continue to believe in Nigeria and contribute our quota towards building a nation worthy of the sacrifices of our heroes past and the aspirations of generations yet unborn,” Mutfwang said.
The governor wished Nigerians at home and in the Diaspora a peaceful and meaningful 66th Independence Anniversary.
Attribution: The report is based on a statement by Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s Director of Press and Public Affairs, Dr Gyang Bere, with additional details cross-checked against reports by The Guardian, Vanguard, Premium Times, PUNCH and The Sun.
