President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in a gesture of compassion and hope for societal harmony, has granted a presidential pardon to 119 individuals detained following the August 1 protests in Kano and Kaduna States. Addressing these pardoned individuals, Vice President Kashim Shettima, representing President Tinubu, urged them to seize this chance to rebuild their lives and avoid future actions that might lead to public unrest or damage to public and private property.
The ceremony, held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, marked the formal handover of 112 suspects to the governors of their respective states—73 from Kano and 39 from Kaduna—while seven had previously been granted bail, and three were released to their parents. Vice President Shettima, speaking in both English and Hausa, reminded the released individuals of the government’s commitment to resolving Nigeria's pressing challenges. He emphasized that President Tinubu’s compassionate decision to pardon these individuals, despite evidence against them, reflects a deep-seated desire for national unity and a peaceful path forward.
He called on Kaduna and Kano State governments to support the rehabilitation of these individuals, facilitating their reintegration into society. “We urge you to become responsible citizens, contributing positively to your communities and refraining from acts that threaten public order,” Shettima stated.
Kaduna State Governor, Sen. Uba Sani, expressed gratitude for the pardon and urged the freed individuals to reflect on their actions. He promised the Kaduna government’s support in aiding their education and integration into productive societal roles. Kano State Governor, Engr. Abba Yusuf, also expressed his administration’s commitment to ensuring that the pardoned citizens are effectively rehabilitated, reinforcing that President Tinubu’s act of mercy should inspire them toward a law-abiding future.
The event witnessed participation from several high-ranking officials, including Deputy Senate President Sen. Jibrin Barau, Minister of Environment Engr. Balarabe Lawal, and Minister of State for Humanitarian Affairs Dr. Yusuf Sununu. Each echoed the President’s hope that these individuals will now commit themselves to positive, peaceful contributions to Nigeria’s progress.
This occasion marked a significant step in President Tinubu's drive to promote national unity and stability, underscoring the government's dedication to restorative justice and societal peace.
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