Independence anniversary: Kaduna govt releases 27 inmates

Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State has granted clemency to 27 inmates across the state's correctional facilities in honor of Nigeria's 66th Independence Anniversary, according to the Commissioner for Information and Culture, Ahmed Maiyaki. This marks an increase in the total beneficiaries of his administration's clemency initiatives, with over 500 individuals having received clemency so far.

The gesture is part of the administration's restorative justice program, which involves the release of eligible inmates, payment of fines, and compensation for victims. Since taking office in May 2023, the administration has allocated more than N300 million for the payment of fines and compensation, according to Maiyaki. The initiative extends beyond mere release from custody, aiming to restore hope and pave the way for responsible citizenship, according to the Commissioner for Justice, Sir James A. Kanyip.

The Attorney-General explained that the governor's practice of granting clemency on significant national occasions, such as Independence Day, New Year, and Democracy Day, has been consistent. The Attorney-General emphasized that the payment of fines and compensation provides a restorative dimension to the initiative by eliminating financial barriers that could keep deserving inmates incarcerated while acknowledging the interests of victims.

The scale and continuity of these interventions demonstrate that clemency under the administration is not an isolated act but a part of a broader approach to justice and social reintegration, according to Kanyip. Each beneficiary represents a life given another opportunity, a reconnected family, and a community with renewed faith in successful reintegration.

The Commissioner urged the beneficiaries to return to their families and communities as responsible and productive citizens.