Sokoto State Governor Ahmed Aliyu, pardoned 113 inmates from the Sokoto Correctional Centre on Tuesday, in a significant gesture to mark Nigeria’s 64th Independence Anniversary.
The pardon, announced by the state Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Nasiru Binji, was carried out in accordance with Section 212 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).
“Out of the pardoned inmates, 67 were released unconditionally, while 22 death sentences were commuted to life imprisonment,” the governor disclosed.
Additionally, 22 inmates serving life sentences had their terms reduced to 25 years, while two other inmates received a two-year sentence reduction.
Governor Aliyu encouraged the released inmates to be positive representatives of the correctional system as they reintegrate into society.
“The attitudinal change you have learned here should remain a priority as you return home,” he advised.
“Ensure your life is different from when you arrived, and do not allow yourselves to return to this place,” he continued.
To further support their rehabilitation, the governor announced a cash donation of ₦50,000 to each of the 67 released inmates, aimed at helping them rebuild their lives.
Sokoto State Controller of Correctional Services, Lawal Gusau, commended the governor’s initiative, stating that it would strengthen ongoing efforts to reduce overcrowding in correctional facilities across the country.
