Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has pardoned six inmates from the Nigerian Correctional Facility in Makurdi, following a recommendation from the Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy, led by Attorney-General Fidelis Bemsen Mnyim. Among those pardoned was Umar Dansabe, who had been on death row for over 14 years for armed robbery.
The governor, represented by the Commissioner for Justice, stated that the pardon was based on the council’s recommendation and testimonies from those who interacted with the inmates, emphasizing that it was not politically motivated. He noted that the pardoned inmates had been equipped with skills to help them reintegrate into society. Alia encouraged the freed individuals to use the opportunity to improve their lives and contribute positively to society.
The Attorney-General revealed that the council had reviewed over 30 applications, ultimately recommending the six inmates who showed genuine remorse and readiness to change.
