Plateau State Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang has granted absolute pardon to 134 inmates as part of activities marking Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary.
The Governor announced the decision in his Independence Day address on Thursday, October 1, 2026, exercising the constitutional prerogative of mercy in what he described as an opportunity to promote justice, humanity and hope.
Under the decision, four inmates who had been sentenced to death had their sentences commuted to life imprisonment, while the remaining 130 beneficiaries received absolute pardons.
Mutfwang said the decision followed consultations with the Plateau State Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy, which considered the circumstances of the inmates and their conduct while in custody.
According to the Governor, several of those granted pardon had demonstrated remorse, maintained good conduct and taken steps towards rehabilitation during their incarceration.
He said their commitment to reform and positive conduct provided grounds for the exercise of mercy, giving the beneficiaries an opportunity to return to their families and communities and rebuild their lives.
The Governor’s decision forms part of the Independence Day activities in Plateau State, with the exercise highlighting the constitutional provision that allows deserving inmates to benefit from executive clemency under specified circumstances.
Mutfwang urged the beneficiaries to regard their release as an opportunity to make positive contributions to society and avoid actions that could return them to the correctional system.
He also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to justice, rehabilitation and the protection of citizens, while encouraging a society where accountability is balanced with compassion and opportunities for genuine reform.
