In commemoration of Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary on October 1, 2026, the Executive Governor of Plateau State, Caleb Mutfwang, has granted absolute pardon to 130 inmates across various custodial facilities in the state and commuted the death sentences of four others to life imprisonment.
​The official executive order was announced in an official goodwill message issued from Government House, Jos, on Thursday morning.
​According to an official statement signed by the Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor, Gyang Bere, the prerogative of mercy was exercised following constitutional provisions and extensive deliberations with key judicial stakeholders.
​”In exercising the powers conferred upon him by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as amended, Governor Mutfwang, after due consultation with the State Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy, has granted absolute pardon to 130 inmates, while four inmates serving death sentences had their sentences reduced to life imprisonment,” the statement read.
​The four inmates whose death sentences were commuted to life imprisonment were identified as Zuhumnan Musa, Jeremiah Aese, Pam Lang, and Thoma Danboyi. Among the 130 individuals granted absolute release were Kamshine Gomerep, Maju Sajen, Jan Thomas, Gody Victor, Imran Maikasuwa, Biplang Emmanuel, Peace Sunday, Salisu Usman, Geoffrey John, and Shwarpo Luka.
​Speaking on behalf of the governor, Gyang Bere highlighted that the executive clemency forms part of broader efforts to decongest custodial facilities, promote judicial reform, and extend state grace to individuals who have demonstrated remorse and positive behavioral reformation while incarcerated.
​In his national address delivered at the Rayfield Government House in Jos, Governor Mutfwang extended warm felicitations to Plateau residents and Nigerians in the diaspora. He urged citizens to reflect on the nation’s journey since independence, honour the sacrifices of past leaders, and maintain faith in democratic institutions despite current socio-economic challenges.
​Reaffirming his administration’s vision for Plateau State, Governor Mutfwang pledged to continue implementing security measures and social programs that support an environment of justice, peace, and inclusive economic growth.
