Mutfwang Pardons 130 Inmates, Commutes Four Death Sentences

Timescope News 

Plateau State Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang has granted absolute pardon to 130 inmates and commuted the death sentences of four others to life imprisonment as part of activities marking Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary.

The Governor exercised the prerogative of mercy after consultations with the State Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy, according to a statement issued on Thursday by his Director of Press and Public Affairs, Dr Gyang Bere.

The four inmates whose death sentences were commuted to life imprisonment are Zuhumnan Musa, Jeremiah Aese, Pam Lang and Thoma Danboyi.

Mutfwang announced the exercise in a goodwill message to Nigerians on the occasion of the country’s Independence Anniversary, urging citizens to remain committed to peace, unity and the development of Nigeria.

He described the anniversary as an opportunity for Nigerians to reflect on the country’s journey since independence, honour the sacrifices of its founding fathers, acknowledge prevailing challenges and celebrate the nation’s achievements.

The Governor urged Nigerians to preserve the unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity of the country, stressing that nation-building is a shared responsibility passed from one generation to another.

According to him, Nigeria’s strength lies in the collective determination of its citizens to rise above their differences and build a country where every citizen has a sense of belonging and an opportunity to pursue their aspirations.

Mutfwang also acknowledged the efforts of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in sustaining national unity and stability, while commending the Federal Government’s emphasis on national cohesion, peace and economic development.

He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to building a Plateau State where citizens can pursue their aspirations in an atmosphere of peace, security, justice and inclusive development.

The Governor commended the people of Plateau State for their resilience, patience, patriotism and contributions to the development of the state and the nation, urging them to remain committed to the Nigerian project despite the challenges facing the country.

He congratulated Nigerians at home and in the Diaspora on the 66th Independence Anniversary and called on citizens to contribute their quota towards building a nation worthy of the sacrifices of its heroes past and the aspirations of future generations.

The prerogative of mercy covers inmates listed by the Plateau State Government under the 2026 exercise, with the government stating that 130 inmates received absolute pardon while four death sentences were reduced to life imprisonment.