Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State has granted pardon to six inmates at the Maximum Correctional Center in Makurdi.
The governor who granted the pardon when he visited the centre on Tuesday noted that the released individuals would be empowered with skills to help them achieve self-reliance.
Alia said that the pardoned inmates had been recommended for release by the Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy, which is chaired by the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice and Public Order, Mr. Fidelis Mnyim.
Represented by Mnyim during the visit, the governor cited Section 212 of the Nigerian Constitution (as amended), which grants him the authority to grant pardons.
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He explained that the council carefully evaluates inmates who have shown genuine remorse and positive behaviour, making them suitable for reintegration into society.
Alia emphasised that the decision to pardon these individuals was not politically influenced but based on recommendations from various members of the clergy and well-meaning individuals who had interacted with the inmates.
The governor also said that the released inmates had been equipped with various skills to ensure they can contribute positively to society, adding that his administration focuses on reforming and empowering the state’s youth through a variety of programs.
He encouraged the freed inmates to take advantage of the opportunities provided, such as the Makurdi fashion hub.
Earlier, Benue State Comptroller of the Nigeria Correctional Services, Mary Oche, expressed her gratitude to the governor for using his position to free the inmates.
She also advised the newly released individuals to avoid crime and embrace their new chance at life.
Among the six inmates granted pardon was Umar Dansabe, who had been on death row for 14 years for armed robbery.
Speaking to journalists, Dansabe expressed his gratitude to the governor and promised to lead a law-abiding life going forward.
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