The Governor of Zamfara State, Dauda Lawal, has pardoned 31 inmates serving sentences at the Nigerian Correctional Service facility in Gusau, the state capital. On Friday, Governor Lawal personally visited the Gusau Medium Custodial Centre, where he officially signed the documents to grant the inmates their release, in line with Nigeria’s constitutional provisions.
In a statement released by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, it was explained that the decision to pardon the inmates came after a thorough review of their records. The investigation was aimed at ensuring that the release was granted to deserving individuals who had shown the potential for rehabilitation.
Governor Lawal emphasized that the Nigerian Constitution grants governors the power to reduce sentences and pardon inmates. This constitutional authority was exercised as part of an initiative to give the inmates a second chance at integrating into society as law-abiding citizens.
In his remarks during the event, the governor highlighted the importance of rehabilitation and transformation. He noted that the pardon was aimed at encouraging the inmates to reform and contribute positively to society once released.
This act of clemency is part of the governor’s broader efforts to promote social reintegration and reduce the stigma associated with imprisonment, helping former inmates rebuild their lives.
“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. Furthermore, I have approved a gift of N50,000 to each pardoned inmate to support their reintegration into society.
“This is an effort by my administration to reduce the overcrowding in correctional centers, especially at this time when we are making arrests of suspected bandits and informants.”
After inspecting the facility, Governor Lawal promised to provide all necessary assistance for the Gusau Correctional Center.
Earlier, the Comptroller of Corrections, Zamfara Command, Umar Galadima, praised Governor Lawal for his visit and decision to grant mercy to inmates.
