The International Human Rights Commission (IHRC) office in Nigeria has appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to grant a presidential pardon to suspended Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Abba Kyari, citing national security concerns.
In a statement issued on Thursday in Abuja, the IHRC described Kyari, a former head of the Intelligence Response Team (IRT), as a dedicated officer whose contributions to combating crime and insurgency in Nigeria have been significant. The commission argued that a pardon would not only recognize Kyari’s past service but also serve the broader interest of national security by fostering unity and stability within law enforcement.
Kyari, once celebrated for his high-profile arrests of notorious criminals, was suspended in July 2021 following allegations of involvement in a $1.1 million internet fraud scheme linked to convicted fraudster Ramon Abbas, popularly known as Hushpuppi. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in the United States indicted Kyari, prompting his detention and ongoing legal proceedings in Nigeria. Additionally, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) charged him with drug trafficking in 2022, further complicating his legal battles.
The IHRC’s appeal emphasized Kyari’s role in dismantling several criminal networks and suggested that his expertise could still be valuable in addressing Nigeria’s security challenges. “DCP Abba Kyari has made immense sacrifices for the nation. A presidential pardon would reaffirm Nigeria’s commitment to justice tempered with mercy,” the statement read.
However, the call for a pardon has sparked mixed reactions. Some Nigerians on social media platforms, including X, expressed support, highlighting Kyari’s track record in fighting crime. Others criticized the IHRC’s request, arguing that it undermines accountability and the fight against corruption within the police force.
The Presidency has yet to respond to the IHRC’s appeal. Legal experts note that a presidential pardon, as provided under Section 175 of the 1999 Constitution, can only be granted after a conviction, raising questions about the timing of the request given Kyari’s ongoing trials.
The Nigeria Police Force declined to comment on the matter, stating that Kyari’s case remains sub judice. As the nation awaits further developments, the IHRC’s plea has reignited debates about justice, redemption, and the role of law enforcement in Nigeria’s security framework.
