In a gesture of hope and new beginnings, governors in Benue, Taraba, Nasarawa, and Gombe states granted amnesty to 96 inmates serving various sentences across their respective correctional centers. This act of clemency coincided with the start of the New Year, offering a fresh start to individuals seeking redemption and reintegration into society.
Benue: Governor Rev Fr Hyacinth Alia led the initiative by pardoning 12 inmates, expressing particular concern for the young individuals he encountered within the correctional center. His words, “This shouldn’t be home for you,” emphasized the importance of rehabilitation and a path towards a brighter future. Among those released was Dennis Yogbo, a former civil servant who had spent 29 years incarcerated. The governor further explained that the pardons were based on recommendations from the Benue State Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy.
Taraba: Following suit, Governor Agbu Kefas of Taraba announced clemency for 31 deserving inmates. In a televised broadcast, he highlighted the dual aims of justice and compassion behind the decision, emphasizing the belief in the transformative power of rehabilitation. This act symbolized a commitment to fostering positive change within the criminal justice system.
Nasarawa:Governor Abdullahi Sule joined the initiative by pardoning 14 inmates under the provisions of the 1999 Constitution. The Nasarawa State Attorney General, Labaran Magaji, confirmed the action as based on recommendations from the state’s Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy.
Gombe:Rounding out the wave of clemency, Governor Inuwa Yahaya announced the release of 39 inmates in Gombe State. In a statewide broadcast, he declared, “It is our hope that the beneficiaries will turn a new leaf and embrace this opportunity for a fresh start.” This act of grace exemplified the spirit of the New Year while offering a chance for personal transformation and societal reintegration.
In total, 96 individuals received the gift of freedom across four states on the first day of the year. This collective act of compassion not only provided second chances but also signaled a commitment to the values of rehabilitation and restorative justice.
