Enugu Governor Grants Pardons to 11 Inmates

Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State has granted pardons to 11 inmates as part of efforts to decongest correctional facilities across the state and offer a second chance to reformed individuals behind bars.

The announcement was made on Sunday in a statement issued by Uche Anichukwu, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on External Relations. According to Anichukwu, the governor’s gesture is rooted in the belief that rehabilitation is possible and that every individual deserves a chance to reintegrate into society as a productive citizen.

The freed inmates: Ugochukwu Oma, Onah Nnamdi, Chiadikobi Onu, Emmanuel Sambo, Emeka Nyia, Ngene Oluebube, Francis Chinecherem, Eze Chigozie, Anthony Tombari, Francis Chibuzor, and Uzoma Nnaoche—were presented to the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Kingsley Udeh, by the Chief of Staff, Victor Udeh.

Anichukwu noted that Governor Mbah exercised his constitutional powers under Section 212 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), following consultations with the state’s Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy.

The move, he added, underscores the administration’s commitment to justice reform, human dignity, and reducing overcrowding in correctional centers, key issues in Nigeria’s penal system.

“The decision was in concordance with reports of proven reform in character, ability to reintegrate with society having possessed or learnt some productive skills.

“It followed the recommendations by the Correctional Services and the Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy, chaired by the State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice.

“The Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy draws membership from the Nigerian Correctional Service, Carmelite Prisoners Interest Organisation (CAPIO), the Catholic Institute for Development, Justice and Peace (CIDJAP), among other reputable justice sector institutions.”