By Ahmed Rufa’i, Dutse
Governor Umar Namadi of Jigawa State has granted state pardon to 12 convicted inmates as part of efforts to mark the Ramadan season and the forthcoming Eid al-Fitr celebrations.
The development was disclosed in a statement signed by the State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Bello Abdulkadir Fanini, and made available through the Office of the Secretary to the State Government in Dutse.
Fanini said the governor exercised his constitutional powers under Section 212(1) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) to grant the clemency, describing the move as part of efforts to promote reconciliation and reintegration of the beneficiaries into society.
According to him, the decision followed recommendations by the Jigawa State Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy, in line with existing state laws guiding such interventions.
“The gesture underscores the government’s commitment to fostering peace, compassion and social harmony,” he said.
Those granted pardon include Ibrahim Adamu Isa, Sa’idu Umar, Adamu Musa, Habibu Musa, Yusuf Ahmed, Shu’aibu Adamu, Abdullahi Ya’u, Yahaya Jana’u, Abdul Hamisu, Garba Miko, Salisu Isa and Aliyu Ibrahim.
Fanini noted that the beneficiaries were selected based on good conduct and the proximity of their release dates.
“They exhibited commendable behaviour and had only a few months left to serve,” he stated.
The Attorney-General urged the pardoned individuals to justify the confidence reposed in them by maintaining lawful conduct and becoming productive members of society.
He warned against any return to criminal activities, stressing that the clemency offers a second chance that must not be squandered.
The pardon, coming in the spirit of Ramadan, reflects a tradition of mercy and forgiveness often observed by governments during significant religious periods.
