Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, has extended clemency to 96 inmates with various convictions, urging them to embrace lawful behavior and seize opportunities for self-improvement provided by his administration.
During a meeting with the Bauchi State Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy on Friday, Governor Mohammed invoked section 212(1) of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution to alleviate the burdens of incarceration on the pardoned individuals, emphasizing the importance of their rehabilitation and reintegration into society.
The decision to pardon the inmates, after a thorough review of their cases by the council, reflects the Governor’s commitment to second chances for those who demonstrate remorse and a willingness to reform.
Governor Bala announced an increase in the financial support provided to the pardoned individuals, raising it from 50,000 to 100,000 naira, and approving seven million naira for fines payment and other assistance.
He also called for swift judicial processes to prevent prison overcrowding, pledging ongoing assistance to facilitate the justice system’s efficiency.
Officials including the Comptroller of the Nigeria Correctional Service in Bauchi State and the State Commissioner of Police commended Governor Mohammed’s compassionate decision and urged the pardoned inmates to uphold their end of the bargain by reintegrating positively into society.
