Kaduna: Gov Uba Sani frees over 500 inmates in three years

Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State has granted clemency to over 500 inmates in the last three years of his administration.

A statement by the Commissioner of Information, Ahmed Maiyaki, said 27 inmates were set free across correctional facilities in the state during Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary, bringing the number of beneficiaries of his administration’s clemency interventions to more than 500.

The exercise covers the release of eligible inmates as well as the payment of fines and compensation for others, as part of the administration’s restorative justice initiative.

The Commissioner said the administration has committed more than N300 million to the payment of fines and compensation for victims since Governor Sani assumed office in May 2023.

Maiyaki said the latest intervention reflects the Governor’s commitment to a justice system that balances accountability and public safety with rehabilitation, reconciliation and the possibility of a second chance for deserving individuals.

“As Nigeria celebrates 66 years of independence, Governor Uba Sani’s intervention gives practical expression to the compassion and shared humanity upon which enduring communities are built.

“The significance of clemency extends beyond release from custody; it lies in restoring hope and opening a credible path towards responsible citizenship,” he said.

Providing further details, the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Sir James A. Kanyip, said the latest exercise continues the Governor’s practice of extending clemency on significant national occasions, including New Year, Democracy Day and Independence Day.

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Kanyip explained that the prerogative of mercy is exercised through established processes, with due regard to accountability, rehabilitation and the responsibilities that accompany freedom.

He said the payment of fines and compensation gives the initiative an important restorative dimension by removing financial barriers that may keep deserving inmates in custody while also recognising the interests of victims.

According to the Attorney-General, the scale and continuity of the interventions demonstrate that clemency under the administration is not a one-off gesture but part of a broader approach to justice and social reintegration.

“Each beneficiary represents a life offered another opportunity, a family reunited and a community with a renewed stake in successful reintegration. This commitment reflects the belief that justice serves society best when it also makes renewal possible,” Kanyip said.

Maiyaki reaffirmed the commitment of Governor Uba Sani to protecting society and respecting victims’ interests while supporting deserving beneficiaries to return to their families and communities as responsible and productive citizens.