Democracy Day: Governor Bago Pardons 80 Prisoners

Niger State Governor Umaru Bago has released 80 prisoners from the state’s various prisons.

In order to allow the prisoners to reunite with their families, the governor also approved the prompt payment of their penalties.

According to a statement made on Monday in Minna by Alhaji Abubakar Usman, Secretary to the State Government, the gesture was made to commemorate 2023 Democracy Day.

He clarified that the prisoners’ release was consistent with the governor’s constitutionally guaranteed right to mercy.

Usman stated that the 80 detainees should be released due to their advanced age, poor health, and good behavior, as suggested by the State Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy.

Usman appealed to the inmates to make use of the opportunity to engage in useful ventures and shun any act that could lead them back to prison.

He also admonished them to be law-abiding and engage in legitimate endeavours by taking advantage of various empowerment windows.

The SSG called on the people of the state to use the period to reflect on their roles in peace-building and support for good governance.

He also enjoined them to support the programmes and policies of the administration designed to bring rapid development to the state.

Usman reassured that the government would ensure that the dividends of democracy were felt in all the nooks and crannies of the state.

He urged the people of the state not to allow despondency to replace hope, adding that they should renew their commitment to strengthening democratic institutions and imbibing tolerance, patriotism and discipline.

The SSG said the government was very concerned about the security challenges in the state and fully prepared to tackle the situation.