Adamawa, Plateau governors free 139 inmates for Nigeria's 66th Independence
Adamawa and Plateau state governors granted freedom to 139 inmates to mark Nigeria's 66th Independence Anniversary on October 1, 2026. Umaru Fintiri pardoned nine inmates and commuted one death sentence to life imprisonment, while Caleb Mutfwang freed 130 inmates and reduced four death sentences to life.
The pardoned inmates came from various custodial centers: Abubakar Dajo (Max Security, Jos), Zabadi Ayuba and Salvation Nyamso (Numan), Amir Idris, Mohammed Saidu, Yaro Sambo, Buhari Salisu, Urube Samuel, and Bamaiyi Amos (Jimeta, Ganye, Guyuk, Yola Old, and Kojoli). Saidu Abdullahi of Yola Old had his death sentence commuted by Fintiri.
Mutfwang's beneficiaries included Zuhumnan Musa, Jeremiah Aese, Pam Lang, and Thoma Danboyi whose death sentences were commuted, plus 126 others granted outright freedom. Both governors acted on Advisory Committee on Prerogative of Mercy recommendations under constitutional Section 212(1)(d).
The governors used the occasion to reflect on Nigeria's journey since 1960, honor founding fathers, acknowledge challenges, and call for unity. Fintiri praised Nigerians' resilience while Mutfwang thanked President Tinubu for sustaining national cohesion.
As part of Independence tradition, these exercises of mercy take immediate effect after legal formalities with Nigerian Correctional Service. The gesture reinforces the anniversary theme of reflecting on national journey while renewing faith in Nigeria's future.
What does this annual Independence Day pardon tradition say about how Nigeria balances justice with mercy as it marks 66 years of nationhood?