The announcement was made in a statement by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Bologi Ibrahim, titled “Governor Bago Grants State Pardon to 11 Convicts
By Titilope Adako
Tension has gripped Gaba and Amfani communities in Lavun Local Government Area of Niger State following the controversial state pardon granted to 11 men convicted of murder.
Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago granted an unconditional pardon to the 11 convicts, all from Amfani, who had been sentenced to death for the killing of seven individuals from the Gaba community during a communal clash.
The announcement was made in a statement by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Bologi Ibrahim, titled “Governor Bago Grants State Pardon to 11 Convicts.”
According to the statement, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Barr. Nasiru Mu’azu, disclosed during a press briefing that the pardon followed a review by the governor and the State Advisory Committee on the Prerogative of Mercy.
He stated that the decision was aimed at fostering reconciliation and peace between the two communities, noting that all issues surrounding the conflict had been resolved through dialogue.
The 11 pardoned individuals are Mohammed Mohammed, Nana Alhaji Sheshi, Isah Baba Nmadu, Mohammed Mohammed Ndabida, Abubakar Baba Salihu, Baba Mohammed Shaba, Adamu Mohammed Babaminin, Haruna Mohammed, Isah Mohammed, Alhaji Inuwa, Ibrahim Mohammed, and Mohammed Isah.
However, the decision has sparked outrage in Gaba, with angry youths protesting and accusing the governor of undermining justice. The protests were quelled following the intervention of community elders.
The Gaba Development Association, through its Public Relations Officer, Isah Baba, issued an open letter condemning the governor’s action.
Baba stated, “The murder of seven innocent, unarmed individuals from our community was the most heinous crime ever recorded among the Nupe people. Their corpses were mutilated and body parts taken away. The court found the perpetrators guilty, and justice was being served—until now.”
He warned that the pardon could lead to renewed violence and destroy public trust in the judicial system and governance.
“Your action has sent a dangerous message that taking a life can be forgiven by political discretion. This not only disrespects the victims and their families but also undermines the judiciary, the law enforcement agencies, and the security of all Nigerlites,” he added.
He urged Governor Bago to reverse the pardon, insisting that justice must not be sacrificed on the altar of political convenience.
The state government, however, maintains that the pardon was lawful and aimed at lasting peace.
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