Uba Sani Frees 97 Inmates, Calls for Rehabilitation and Second Chances

Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, has granted clemency to 97 inmates as part of activities marking Nigeria’s Democracy Day, describing the gesture as a demonstration of compassion and a reaffirmation of the values of justice, equity and human dignity.

The governor announced the clemency during an official ceremony held at the Kaduna State Correctional Centre on Friday, where he stressed the importance of rehabilitation, reconciliation and second chances in building a just and democratic society.

According to him, the beneficiaries were selected following recommendations by the Kaduna State Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy, with the exercise carried out under the constitutional powers vested in the office of the governor.

The clemency package included outright release for some inmates, commutation of sentences for others and the payment of fines on behalf of eligible convicts.

“While justice must be upheld, we must never lose sight of the transformative power of redemption and the profound impact of second chances,” the governor said.

Addressing the beneficiaries, Sani urged them to regard their freedom as both an opportunity and a responsibility, encouraging them to embrace lawful conduct, demonstrate genuine repentance and contribute positively to the development of their communities.

“To those being released, this moment signifies not only the gift of freedom but also a profound responsibility. It is an invitation to embrace genuine repentance, engage in lawful conduct and contribute meaningfully to society as responsible citizens,” he said.

“I urge you to seize this opportunity to become agents of positive change within your families and communities.”

The governor also appealed to traditional rulers, religious leaders, community stakeholders and residents of Kaduna State to support the reintegration of the released inmates by welcoming them back into society without prejudice or discrimination.

“I also implore our traditional rulers, religious leaders, community figures and all citizens of Kaduna State to welcome these individuals back into society with understanding and support. Successful reintegration is rooted in acceptance, encouragement and the provision of opportunities to rebuild lives,” he added.

Sani noted that a compassionate society must strike a balance between justice and mercy, arguing that supporting rehabilitated former inmates helps strengthen communities, reduce recidivism and improve public safety.

He commended the Judiciary, the Nigerian Correctional Service, the Legal Aid Council, security agencies, traditional and religious institutions, civil society organisations and other stakeholders for their roles in ensuring the success of the initiative.

The governor also praised the Kaduna State Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy for what he described as its professionalism, diligence and commitment to transparency in identifying deserving beneficiaries.

Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to justice and social inclusion, Sani said Kaduna State would continue to promote policies that combine accountability with compassion while creating opportunities for citizens to rebuild their lives and contribute meaningfully to society.

“Our commitment remains unwavering to building a Kaduna State where justice is tempered with mercy, compassion strengthens accountability and every citizen is given the opportunity to realise their potential and contribute to the progress of our state,” the governor said.