Zamfara gov pardons 31 inmates, supports reintegration with ₦50,000 each

Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, has pardoned 31 inmates from the Nigerian Correctional Service facility in Gusau, the state capital. The Governor’s decision, made during a visit to the facility on Friday, was in line with Section 212(1) of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution, which empowers governors to grant pardons.

In a statement released by the Governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, it was revealed that the inmates’ records had been carefully reviewed before the decision was made.

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Governor Lawal expressed confidence that the pardon would assist the beneficiaries in transforming into law-abiding citizens.

He further stated, “Today, I am exercising the power granted by Section 212(1) of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution to show mercy to inmates, which aims to alleviate imprisonment’s hardships and psychological distress. The decision was made after thoroughly examining the prisoners’ records, which confirmed their genuine remorse.”

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To aid in their reintegration into society, Governor Lawal announced a gift of N50,000 to each of the pardoned inmates. He explained that this gesture was part of his administration’s efforts to reduce overcrowding in correctional centres, particularly in light of the ongoing arrests of suspected bandits and informants in the state.

After inspecting the Gusau facility, Governor Lawal pledged to provide further support for its upkeep and improvement.

The visit was welcomed by the Zamfara Command’s Comptroller of Corrections, Umar Galadima, who praised the Governor for his compassion and the decision to release the inmates.