THIS DAWN — In a significant exercise of constitutional prerogative, Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State has granted pardon to several inmates, including Sunday Jackson.
Jackson, it could be recalled, had been sentenced to death while defending himself against a Fulani attacker.
The Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Humwashi Wonosikou, made the announcement as part of Christmas and New Year celebrations.
Sunday Jackson, formerly on death row at the Kuje Medium Security Custodial Centre, was among those pardoned.
He was joined by Joseph Eugene, incarcerated at the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Yola, and Maxwell Ibrahim, serving at the Kaduna Medium Security Custodial Centre.
Fintiri emphasized that the decision was guided by the recommendations of the Adamawa State Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy.
He also maintained that it is rooted in the constitutional powers vested in him.
Remission of Sentences by Fintiri
In addition to the pardons, the Governor ordered the remission of sentences for five other inmates who had demonstrated good conduct during their incarceration.
Those affected include:
- Joshua James Audo
- Adamu Ibrahim
- Mohammed Abubakar
- Ibrahim Usman
- Saidu Abubakar
These individuals are serving terms at the custodial centres in Numan and Jada.
Governor Fintiri underscored that the pardons and remissions were not arbitrary but based on evidence of rehabilitation and improved behavior.
“In the exercise of my prerogative of mercy as enshrined in the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and in line with the recommendations of the Adamawa State Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy, I have granted pardon to three persons and directed the remission of the reminder of the sentences of five others who have served various jail terms and have significantly demonstrated good conduct over the years,” he said.
Symbolism of the Gesture
The timing of the pardons—during the festive season—was described as a symbolic act of compassion and reconciliation.
Analysts note that such gestures are often intended to highlight the rehabilitative purpose of incarceration and to encourage inmates to embrace reform.
Governor Fintiri has previously spoken about the importance of balancing justice with mercy.
His latest decision reflects a broader trend among Nigerian governors who, during festive periods, exercise constitutional powers to grant clemency to deserving inmates.
Legal experts point out that the prerogative of mercy serves as a vital constitutional safeguard.
It ensures that individuals who demonstrate genuine reform are given a second chance.
The pardons and remissions granted by Governor Fintiri mark a significant moment for the affected inmates and their families.
It offered them renewed hope and reintegration into society.
As the state celebrates Christmas and New Year, the Governor’s action underscores the values of forgiveness, rehabilitation, and compassion within Nigeria’s justice system.
