Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has granted a presidential pardon to 175 individuals, including convicted murderers and drug traffickers. According to a statement by Bayo Onanuga, the president’s special adviser on media and public information, the beneficiaries of the pardon include 28 drug traffickers, 41 illegal miners, and 22 murderers.
The decision has sparked widespread reaction from Nigerians, with many calling for the pardon to be reversed. The family of late Bilyaminu Ahmed has condemned the pardon of Maryam Sandain, who was convicted of murdering her husband in 2017. Sandain was sentenced to death by hanging in January 2020.
In response to the pardon, Nigerian actress Kemi Afolabi has urged citizens to prioritize their safety and well-being. On her Instagram story, she wrote, “Do not allow anyone to take your life, guard it with all your being.” Her statement comes amid growing concern over the impact of the presidential pardon on public safety and the perception of justice in Nigeria.
The pardon has been met with criticism from various groups and individuals, who argue that it undermines the rule of law and may embolden criminal activity. The development has also raised questions about the criteria used to select the beneficiaries of the pardon and the potential consequences for victims’ families and communities.
As the controversy surrounding the presidential pardon continues to unfold, many Nigerians are waiting to see how the situation will be addressed by the government and other stakeholders. The pardon has significant implications for the country’s justice system and public perception of the government’s commitment to upholding the law and protecting citizens.
