Sokoto State Governor, Ahmed Aliyu, has extended a gesture of mercy by granting pardons to 113 inmates at the Sokoto Correctional Centre.
This decision reflects the governor’s commitment to rehabilitation and reintegration of inmates into society.
The announcement was made by the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Barrister Nasiru Binji, who conveyed the governor’s message.
Binji emphasized that this action aligns with Section 212 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended).
“Of the 113 pardoned inmates, 67 were released unconditionally, while the death sentences of 22 inmates were commuted to life imprisonment.
“Twenty-two (22) inmates serving life sentences had their terms reduced to 25 years, and two others had their sentences reduced by two years,” the commissioner said.
Governor Aliyu urged the released inmates to embrace their second chance and strive to become exemplary citizens.
“The change in behavior you have acquired here should remain a priority as you return home. Ensure your life is different from when you arrived, and do not allow yourselves to return to this place,” he advised.
To further facilitate their reintegration into society, the governor announced a financial assistance of N50,000 for each of the 67 released inmates, aimed at helping them start anew.
In response to the governor’s initiative, Sokoto State Controller of Correctional Services, Mr. Lawal Gusau, expressed gratitude for the supportive measure, highlighting its importance in ongoing efforts to decongest correctional facilities across the nation.