Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State has pardoned eight inmates from the Nigerian Correctional Service facilities in the state, granting them parole as part of his use of the prerogative of mercy.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the governor’s media aide, Uche Anichukwu, said the decision was communicated to the Comptroller of the Nigerian Correctional Service, Enugu State Command, Nicholas Obiako, in a letter dated December 31, 2024. The letter was signed by the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Victor Udeh.
The letter explained that the governor’s action was in line with Section 212 of the 1999 Constitution, which allows state governors to grant pardons under specific conditions after consulting with the Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy.
The governor approved the release of eight inmates who had served substantial parts of their jail terms for various state offences. One of the inmates, who had been jailed for contempt of court, was also pardoned after completing part of his five-year sentence and purging himself of the contempt.
The statement highlighted that the pardon was granted based on evidence of character reform, readiness to reintegrate into society, and the acquisition of productive skills. Recommendations were made by the Nigerian Correctional Service and the Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy.
The council, chaired by the state Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, includes representatives from organizations such as the Carmelite Prisoners’ Interest Organisation and the Catholic Institute for Development, Justice and Peace, alongside other reputable justice sector institutions.
Section 212 (1) of the 1999 Constitution empowers the governor to pardon individuals convicted of state offences. The powers may include granting pardons, offering respite, reducing punishments, or remitting penalties.
However, the law requires the governor to consult with an advisory council before exercising these powers.
The governor emphasized that the parole is subject to a one-year monitoring period, during which the pardoned inmates are expected to demonstrate their ability to reintegrate into society. The decision reflects a commitment to justice reform and rehabilitation within the state.
