The Adamawa State Governor, Umaru Fintiri, and the Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, have granted freedom to a total of 139 inmates in the spirit of the 66th Independence Anniversary celebration of Nigeria.
In a press statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Adamawa, Humwashi Wonosikou, on Thursday, noted that nine inmates were pardoned. Those pardoned and discharged are Abubakar Dajo, serving at the Maximum Security Custodial Centre, Jos; Zabadi Ayuba and Salvation Nyamso, serving at the Numan Custodial Centre; while Amir Idris, Mohammed Saidu, Yaro Sambo, Buhari Salisu, Urube Samuel and Bamaiyi Amos were discharged from the Jimeta, Ganye, Guyuk, Yola Old and Kojoli Custodial Centres, respectively.
In a related development, Governor Fintiri approved the commutation of the death sentence imposed on one inmate, Saidu Abdullahi, of the Yola Old Custodial Centre, to life imprisonment. The Governor acted on the advice of the Advisory Committee on the Prerogative of Mercy and in exercise of the powers conferred on him by Section 212(1)(d) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended).
He, thereafter, ordered the release of the inmates in commemoration of the 2026 Independence Day Anniversary. The pardons and commutation take immediate effect, as all legal formalities have been concluded with the Nigerian Correctional Service.
On his part, Governor Mutfwang granted a total of 130 inmates freedom, according to an announcement in his goodwill message to Nigerians on Thursday. The Governors felicitated citizens of Plateau State, Adamawa and Nigerians at home and in the Diaspora, while expressing optimism for a stronger, united and prosperous Nigeria. They described the anniversary as a time to reflect on the nation’s journey and renew faith in its future. Governor Fintiri paid tribute to the nation’s founding fathers, including Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, Chief Obafemi Awolowo and Sir Ahmadu Bello, as well as other nationalists whose courage, sacrifices and struggle contributed to Nigeria’s attainment of independence.
He noted that the vision of a united, peaceful and prosperous Nigeria, which inspired the country’s founding generation, remains a shared responsibility and a guiding light for present and future generations. The Governor also commended the Nigerian Military and other security agencies for their gallantry, patriotism and unwavering commitment to protecting the nation and preserving its unity. He acknowledged the sacrifices being made by personnel across the country in the face of prevailing security challenges, stressing that their service to the nation will not be forgotten.
