The Governor of Niger State, Umaru Bago has pardoned 80 inmates in various correctional centres located in the state. The governor has further approved the immediate payment of their fines to enable the inmates to reunite with their families.
The Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Abubakar Usman confirmed the development in a statement released in Minna on Monday . According to him, the gesture was to mark the 2023 Democracy Day.
He explained that the release of the inmates was in line with the prerogative of mercy granted to the governor by the Constitution.
He said the State Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy recommended the release of the 80 inmates based on old age, ill health and good behaviour.
Usman further appealed to the inmates to make good use of the opportunity. In addition, he told them to shun any act that could lead them back to prison.
