From Femi Oyelola, Kaduna
Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State on Friday marked Democracy Day 2026 by granting clemency to 97 inmates at the Kaduna Correctional Center, reaffirming the enduring values of justice, compassion, freedom, and democratic governance that define the June 12 struggle.
During the ceremony at the Kaduna Correctional Center, Governor Sani said Democracy Day offers a chance to honor the sacrifices of Nigerians who fought to restore democratic rule and to renew the commitment to building a more united, peaceful, and prosperous nation.
In an earlier message to the citizens of the state, the Governor described June 12 as a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s history, noting that the 1993 presidential election showed Nigerians’ ability to overcome ethnic, religious, and regional divisions in pursuit of a shared national destiny.
As a participant in the pro-democracy movement, Governor Sani paid tribute to Chief MKO Abiola, GCFR; Chief Gani Fawehinmi, SAN, GCON; Dr. Beko Ransome-Kuti; Hajiya Kudirat Abiola; President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR; and other patriots whose sacrifices helped secure the democratic freedoms Nigerians enjoy today.
“Their courage remains a powerful reminder that freedom is never free and that democracy must be nurtured, protected, and strengthened by every generation,” he said.
The Governor explained that the inmates’ release was based on the constitutional Prerogative of Mercy, following recommendations by the Kaduna State Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy after reviewing eligible cases. The exercise included outright release, sentence reductions, and payment of fines for affected inmates.
Describing the gesture as a demonstration of the transformative power of redemption and second chances, Governor Sani urged the beneficiaries to pursue lawful and productive lives.
To support their reintegration, he announced a cash payment. He offered all 97 beneficiaries admission opportunities into Kaduna State Skills Acquisition and Vocational Institutes in Soba, Rigachikun, and Samaru-Kataf for those interested in acquiring or upgrading vocational skills.
According to him, this initiative aligns with his administration’s focus on rehabilitation, empowerment, and inclusive development.
“While justice must be upheld, we must never lose sight of the transformative power of redemption and the importance of second chances,” the Governor said.
He also called on traditional rulers, religious leaders, community groups, and residents to support the reintegration of the released inmates, emphasizing that successful rehabilitation requires collective societal effort.
In further support of correctional reform, Governor Sani approved the donation of a utility bus to the Nigerian Correctional Service, Kaduna State Command. He provided medical equipment and supplies to enhance the healthcare service at the correctional center.
Earlier, the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Sir James Kanyip, described the exercise as another example of Governor Sani’s compassionate and reform-minded leadership. He noted that the Prerogative of Mercy remains an important tool for balancing justice with mercy, promoting rehabilitation, and reducing congestion in correctional facilities.
The Democracy Day clemency exercise highlights the Kaduna State Government’s dedication to criminal justice reform, social inclusion, and the delivery of democratic benefits through policies that restore hope, create opportunities, and strengthen the bonds of citizenship.
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