Adamawa State Governor Umaru Fintiri and his Plateau State counterpart, Caleb Mutfwang, have granted freedom to a combined 139 inmates as Nigeria celebrates its 66th Independence Anniversary.
In a statement issued on Thursday by the Chief Press Secretary to the Adamawa State Governor, Humwashi Wonosikou, nine inmates were pardoned and discharged.
Those released include Abubakar Dajo, who was serving at the Maximum Security Custodial Centre, Jos; Zabadi Ayuba and Salvation Nyamso, who were held at the Numan Custodial Centre.
Amir Idris, Mohammed Saidu, Yaro Sambo, Buhari Salisu, Urube Samuel and Bamaiyi Amos were also discharged from the Jimeta, Ganye, Guyuk, Yola Old and Kojoli Custodial Centres, respectively.
In a related development, Governor Fintiri approved the commutation of the death sentence handed to Saidu Abdullahi, an inmate at the Yola Old Custodial Centre, to life imprisonment.
The Governor took the decision based on the recommendation of the Advisory Committee on the Prerogative of Mercy and pursuant to the powers granted under Section 212(1)(d) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended).
He subsequently directed the release of the inmates as part of activities marking the 2026 Independence Day Anniversary.
The pardons and commutation took immediate effect after all necessary legal procedures were completed with the Nigerian Correctional Service.
On his part, Governor Mutfwang approved the release of 130 inmates, according to an announcement contained in his goodwill message to Nigerians on Thursday.
The two governors congratulated the people of Adamawa and Plateau states, as well as Nigerians at home and abroad, expressing hope for a stronger, united and prosperous country.
They described the anniversary as an opportunity to reflect on Nigeria’s journey and renew confidence in its future.
Governor Fintiri paid tribute to the country’s founding fathers, including Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe, Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, Chief Obafemi Awolowo and Sir Ahmadu Bello, alongside other nationalists whose courage and sacrifices contributed to the country’s independence.
He said the vision of a united, peaceful and prosperous Nigeria that inspired the founding generation remains a shared responsibility and a guiding principle for current and future generations.
Fintiri also commended the Nigerian Military and other security agencies for their bravery, patriotism and continued efforts to protect the country and preserve its unity.
He acknowledged the sacrifices made by security personnel amid the security challenges across the country, stressing that their service would not be forgotten.
The governor further praised Nigerians for their resilience, patience and continued faith despite the economic and social difficulties facing the country.
He described Nigerians as resilient and enterprising people whose determination and strength of character continue to sustain the nation.
In Adamawa, Fintiri expressed appreciation to residents for their continued support, prayers and cooperation with his administration.
He said the people’s confidence and partnership had helped the government deliver democratic dividends across different sectors and promote the state as a destination for business, conferences and investment.
Fintiri also assured the people of Adamawa that his administration would not abandon any ongoing project it had initiated.
He reiterated his commitment to completing existing projects and providing sustainable infrastructure and development that would create a lasting legacy for the people.
Congratulating Nigerians on the 66th Independence Anniversary, Fintiri expressed optimism about the country’s future, saying renewed commitment, unity and collective effort would help Nigeria overcome its current challenges and move towards a more peaceful, stable and prosperous future.
Mutfwang also commuted the death sentences of four inmates to life imprisonment.
The affected inmates are Zuhumnan Musa, Jeremiah Aese, Pam Lang and Thoma Danboyi.
The Plateau governor described the Independence Anniversary as an opportunity for Nigerians to reflect on the country’s journey since 1960, honour the sacrifices of its founding fathers, recognise existing challenges and celebrate its achievements.
He called on Nigerians to protect the country’s unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity, noting that nation-building was a collective responsibility passed from one generation to another.
According to him, “Nigeria’s strength lies in the collective determination of its citizens to rise above differences and build a nation in which every citizen has a sense of belonging and an opportunity to fulfil his or her aspirations.”
Mutfwang also recognised the efforts of President Bola Tinubu in maintaining the country’s unity and stability, particularly his focus on national cohesion, peace and economic development.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to creating a Plateau State where residents can pursue their aspirations in an environment of peace, security, justice and inclusive development.
The governor praised the people of Plateau for their resilience, patience and patriotism, urging them to remain committed to the Nigerian project despite the challenges facing the country.
He encouraged Nigerians to continue believing in the country and play their part in building a nation worthy of the sacrifices of its heroes past and the hopes of generations yet unborn.
Mutfwang wished Nigerians at home and abroad a peaceful, meaningful and memorable 66th Independence Anniversary.