Governors Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State and Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State have granted freedom to a total of 139 inmates in the spirit of Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary celebration.
In a press statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Adamawa, Humwashi Wonosikou, on Thursday, 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.
Mutfwang also reduced to life imprisonment the sentences of four inmates on death row. The four inmates whose death sentences were commuted are Zuhumnan Musa, Jeremiah Aese, Pam Lang and Thoma Danboyi.
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.
Governor Fintiri equally acknowledged the resilience, patience and enduring faith of Nigerians in the face of the economic and social challenges confronting the country. He described Nigerians as a resilient and enterprising people whose determination and strength of character continue to sustain the nation.
In Adamawa State, the Governor expressed appreciation to the people for their continued support, prayers and cooperation with his administration. He said their confidence and partnership have enabled the government to deliver democratic dividends across sectors and advance the transformation of the state as a destination for business, conferences and investment.
Governor Fintiri further assured the people of Adamawa State that no ongoing project initiated by his administration would be abandoned. He reiterated his commitment to completing ongoing projects and delivering sustainable infrastructure and development that will leave a lasting legacy for the people.
While congratulating Nigerians on the 66th Independence Anniversary, Governor Fintiri expressed optimism about the future of the country, assuring Nigerians that, with renewed commitment, unity and collective effort, the nation will overcome its present challenges and move towards a more peaceful, stable and prosperous future.
Mutfwang described the Independence anniversary as an opportunity for Nigerians to reflect on the country’s journey since 1960, honour the sacrifices of its founding fathers, acknowledge prevailing challenges and celebrate the nation’s achievements. He urged Nigerians to preserve the unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity of the country, stressing that nation-building was a collective responsibility that had passed from one generation to another.
According to him, “Nigeria’s strength lies in the collective determination of its citizens to rise above differences and build a nation in which every citizen has a sense of belonging and an opportunity to fulfil his or her aspirations.”
Mutfwang also acknowledged the efforts of President Bola Tinubu in sustaining the unity and stability of the country, particularly his emphasis on national cohesion, peace and economic development. He reaffirmed the commitment of his administration 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 for their resilience, patience and patriotism, urging them to remain committed to the Nigerian project despite the challenges confronting the nation. He urged Nigerians to continue believing in the country and contribute their quota towards building a nation worthy of the sacrifices of its heroes past and the aspirations of generations yet unborn.
