Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo has granted pardon and other forms of executive clemency to 101 inmates and convicts as part of activities marking Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary.
Ododo announced the decision in his Independence Day address on Thursday, October 1, 2026, saying the exercise was based on the constitutional prerogative of mercy and guided by considerations including rehabilitation, remorse, humanitarian circumstances, public interest and justice.
The governor said the decision was intended to balance justice with compassion, particularly for people who had demonstrated remorse and made progress towards rehabilitation.
According to Ododo, the seven-member Kogi State Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy, inaugurated on September 2, reviewed case records, considered representations on behalf of inmates and examined correctional reports.
The council also visited correctional centres in Koton Karfe, Kabba, Dekina, Ankpa, Idah and Okene as part of its assessment. Factors considered included the inmates’ age, health, conduct in custody, time already served, rehabilitation, vocational skills, family support, public safety and the interests of victims.
Ododo said 94 beneficiaries were granted mercy on grounds including old age, medical conditions, good conduct, rehabilitation, remorse and other compassionate considerations. Seven others had their sentences remitted.
Among those granted mercy on old-age and medical grounds was 91-year-old Lamidi Mohammed Garuba. Other beneficiaries included Ajagbonna Olufemi David, 72, as well as several other inmates whose cases were considered by the advisory council.
The governor stressed that the clemency did not diminish the seriousness of the offences for which the beneficiaries had been convicted. He urged those released to regard the decision as a second chance and return to their families and communities as responsible citizens.
“You have been given another opportunity, and every second opportunity comes with a greater responsibility,” Ododo said, urging the beneficiaries to make productive use of the skills and lessons acquired while in custody.
The governor also called on young people and communities across Kogi State to reject criminal activities, while urging parents, traditional rulers, religious leaders and youth organisations to support efforts to reduce crime.
The clemency exercise formed part of events marking Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary, with Ododo also using his address to call for unity and renewed commitment to the development of Kogi State and the country.