By Abdullahi Idris, Bauchi
Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, has granted state pardon to 73 inmates across various correctional centres in the state, in exercise of his powers under Section 212 of the 1999 Constitution as amended.
The Governor made the announcement during a ceremony held on March 4, 2026, describing the prerogative of mercy as a constitutional responsibility guided by compassion, justice and fairness,especially during the holy month of Ramadan.
He said the decision followed thorough recommendations by the State Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy.
Governor Mohammed also approved ₦100,000 each to support the reintegration of the beneficiaries into society.
Earlier,the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Hassan Elyakub, disclosed that the Governor released ₦3.8 million to pay fines and compensation for inmates whose sentences included monetary penalties.
He called on the judiciary to adopt non-custodial measures such as community service for minor offences.
The Controller of the Nigeria Correctional Service in the state, Tade Monday, and religious leaders commended the Governor’s gesture and urged the freed inmates to be law-abiding and contribute positively to society.