By Aloysius Umalo, Makurdi
Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State on Tuesday, visited the Maximum Correctional Center in Makurdi where he granted pardon to six inmates as part of his Prerogative of Mercy.
He mentioned that the released inmates will be provided with skills training to help them become self-sufficient.
The inmates were recommended for pardon by the Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy, led by the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice and Public Order, Barrister Fidelis Mnyim.
Governor Alia stated that he has the authority to grant pardon under Section 212 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (As Amended).
He emphasized that the decision to release the inmates was based on their display of genuine change and remorse.
The Governor clarified that the decision was not influenced by politics, but rather by recommendations and testimonies from various individuals including clergy and other members of the community who had interacted with the inmates personally.
He mentioned that all the freed inmates have been equipped with skills to support themselves and contribute positively to society.
He also highlighted the various programs initiated by his administration to reform and empower the youth in the State.
The Governor encouraged the inmates to make good choices and take advantage of available opportunities for personal growth.
The Benue State Comptroller of the Nigeria Correctional Services, Mary Oche, had earlier expressed gratitude to the Governor for releasing the six inmates and urged them to lead a law-abiding life moving forward.
One of the released inmates, Mr. Umar Danasabe, who had been sentenced to death for armed robbery 14 years ago, thanked the Governor for the pardon and promised to uphold good behavior in the future.
