As part of events commemorating Nigeria’s 66th anniversary of independence on October 1, 2026, Plateau State Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang granted a “absolute pardon” to 134 prisoners, exercising the prerogative of mercy enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution.
In his speech commemorating the nation’s Independence Day anniversary, Mutfwang announced the pardon. Four death row convicts had their sentences modified to life in prison, while the remaining offenders received complete pardons.
According to the governor, the action came after discussions with the State Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy, emphasising the importance of justice, compassion, and hope as Nigerians consider the country’s past.
Bere Gyang, the governor’s director of press affairs, signed the goodwill letter. Mutfwang stated that the pardoned criminals had shown regret and turned into exemplary inmates, with many of them implementing measures that set them apart.
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Bere listed Zuhumnan Musa, Jeremiah Aese, Pam Lang, and Thoma Danboyi as the death row detainees whose sentences were commuted to life in prison.