President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Nigeria has issued a revised policy actions over the 2025 Presidential Pardons he had earlier granted to 175 persons, some of whom were convicted murderers, deadly kidnappers; which included Maryam Sanda, who had spent barely six years and eight months at the Suleja Medium Security Custodial Centre after she was convicted and sentenced to death by hanging over the killing of her husband, Bilyaminu Bello in Abuja who she stabbed three times repeatedly, this, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in his earlier presidential pardon granted to the 37 years old convicted and condemned murderer, Maryam Sanda, had asked her to go home free because of her children, but, following public outcry and condemnation, in the revised version of the presidential pardons signed into law on October 21, 2025 and made available to the public by the Presidency on Wednesday October 29, 2025, President Tinubu commuted the death sentence to 12 years imprisonment, although, the Presidency never mentioned the total numbers of people granted the presidential pardons, but, the list of beneficiaries made available by the Presidential Spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, indicated that only 86 persons were granted the presidential pardons, and Maryam Sanda apparently spelt as Maryam Sunda was last on the list, and the names of earlier beneficiaries like Kelvin Prosper Oniarah, were not seen in the revised edition of the list, maybe, the names were omitted due to excessive public outcry that Prosper Kelvin Oniarah was a convicted notorious high profile gang leader of a deadly kidnapping group that were widely stated to be responsible for the kidnapping and subsequent killing of a former Anambra State Deputy Governor, Chudi Nwike, kidnapping of a prominent legal practitioner, Mike Ozhekome on August 24th 2013 along Benin-Auchi road and during the kidnapping operation, the gunmen ambushed and killed four police officers including the Divisional Police Officer, DPO of Ehor Division who led the police team in an attempt to rescue Mike Ozhekome, outside that, the 44 years old Oniarah was also stated to be responsible for the kidnapping of a Judge in the Edo State Judiciary; a top female official of the Federal Inland Revenue Service, FIRS; among other several members of the National Youth Service Corps, NYSC and security agents and Oniarah was also stated to carry out several armed robberies and kidnap operations in Delta, Edo, Rivers and Anambra States, maintaining operational base and detention camps in Warri and Kokori Community in Delta State, Ugbokolo Community in Benue State, Benin City in Edo State, and Aba in Abia State, that on 18th September, 2013, Oniarah issued a 60-day ultimatum to the Federal Government of Nigeria to release some of his boys who were arrested by the Department of State Services, DSS or he would wreak havoc on innocent Nigerian citizens, and, on 25th September, 2013, a combined security team of the Nigerian Army and DSS operatives arrested Kelvin Prosper Oniarah, a convicted notorious terrorist, kidnap kingpin and armed robber, who had been on the wanted list of the security agencies, and he was subsequently sentenced to 20 years imprisonment which he had spent 12 years in prison before President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had initially made an attempt to release him.

Details of the three press releases issued by the Presidency in the course of the 2025 Presidential Pardons that elicited public outcry and rejections, are presented verbatim in an descending order of latest to former below:

PrESIDENT TiNUBU SiGNS InSTRUMENT Of ClEMENCY AnD PaRDONS, MoVES SeCRETARIAT Of PrEROGATIVE Of MeRCY CoMMITTEE To JuSTICE MiNISTRY

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has executed the relevant instruments of release to complete the process of formally exercising his constitutional power of prerogative of mercy to grant pardon and clemency to specific individuals who were earlier convicted for various offences.

Following consultations with the Council of State and public opinion on the matter, the President directed a further review of the initially approved list for consideration in furtherance of the President’s discretionary powers under Section 175(1)(&(2) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

Consequently, certain persons convicted of serious crimes such as kidnapping, drug-related offences, human trafficking, fraud, unlawful possession of firearms/arms dealing, etc, were deleted from the list. Others who had been hitherto pardoned in the old list had their sentences commuted.

This action became necessary in view of the seriousness and security implications of some of the offences, the need to be sensitive to the feelings of the victims of the crimes and society in general, the need to boost the morale of law enforcement agencies and adherence to bilateral obligations. The concept of justice as a three-way traffic for the Accused, the Victim, and the State/Society also guided the review.

The approved list of eligible beneficiaries has been transmitted to the Nigerian Correctional Service for implementation in line with the duly signed instruments of release.

Furthermore, to ensure that future exercises meet public expectations and best practices, the President has directed the immediate relocation of the Secretariat of the Presidential Advisory Committee on Prerogative of Mercy from the Federal Ministry of Special Duties to the Federal Ministry of Justice.

President Tinubu also directed the Attorney-General of the Federation to issue appropriate Guidelines for the Exercise of the Power of Prerogative of Mercy, which includes compulsory consultation with relevant prosecuting agencies.

This will ensure that only persons who fully meet the stipulated legal and procedural requirements will henceforth benefit from the issuance of instruments of release.

The President appreciated the constructive feedback and engagement from stakeholders and the general public on this matter.

President Tinubu also reaffirmed his administration’s broader commitment to judicial reforms and improving the administration of justice in Nigeria. Signed, Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on information & Strategy on October 29, 2025.

Presidential Prerogative of Mercy Exercise at Review Stage, Not Final – AGF Fagbemi

The Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice wishes to clarify that no inmate approved for clemency under the recent exercise of the President’s power of prerogative of mercy has been released from custody.

The process remains at the final administrative stage, which includes a standard review to ensure that all names and recommendations fully comply with established legal and procedural requirements before any instrument of release is issued.

It is important to note that the last stage of the exercise, after approval by the Council of State, is the issuance of the instrument for the implementation of the decision concerning each beneficiary. This stage affords an opportunity for a final look at the list for remedial purposes, if any, before the instrument is forwarded to the Controller-General of Corrections for necessary action. This verification process is part of the standard protocol and reflects the government’s commitment to transparency and due diligence.

The Honourable Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice appreciates the public’s vigilance and constructive feedback, which continue to strengthen institutional integrity. Public engagement is always welcome, as it demonstrates that Nigerians care deeply about justice and good governance.

There is no delay in the process; it is simply following the law to the letter to ensure that only those duly qualified benefit from the President’s mercy. As soon as all legal and procedural checks are concluded, the public will be duly informed. The rule of law does not rush; it ensures fairness. Signed, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice on October 16, 2025.

Details of The Presidential Pardon and Clemency

Illegal miners, white-collar convicts, remorseful drug offenders, foreigners, Major General Mamman Vatsa, Major Akubo, Professor Magaji Garba, capital offenders such as Maryam Sanda, Ken Saro Wiwa, and the other Ogoni Eight were among the 175 convicts and former convicts who received President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s mercy on Thursday.

1. Nweke Francis Chibueze, aged 44, serving a life sentence at Kirikiri for cocaine.
2. Doctor Nwogu Peters, aged 67; Serving a 17-year jail term for fraud. Sentenced in 2013.
3. Mrs Anastasia Daniel Nwaoba, aged 63. Already served a sentence for fraud.
4. Barrister Hussaini Alhaji Umar, aged 58. Sentenced in 2023 to pay a fine of ₦150 Million in the ICPC case.
5. Ayinla Saadu Alanamu, age 63, was sentenced to seven years for bribery in 2019 and has served the sentence.
6. Honourable Farouk M Lawan, aged 62, Sentenced to five years in 2021 for Corrupt Practices and had served the sentence.

President Tinubu granted clemency to most of them based on the reports that the convicts had shown remorse and good conduct. He forgave some due to old age, the acquisition of new vocational skills, or enrolment in the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN). President Tinubu also corrected the historic injustice committed by British colonialists against Sir Herbert Macaulay, one of Nigeria’s foremost nationalists.

In all, the Presidential Advisory Committee on the Prerogative of Mercy, chaired by the Attorney-General and Justice Minister, Prince Lateef Olasunkanmi Fagbemi, recommended pardon for two inmates, 15 former convicts, 11 of whom have died. The committee recommended clemency for 82 inmates and commutation of sentences for 65 inmates. Seven inmates on death row also benefited from the Presidential reprieve. The committee recommended that the President should commute their death sentences to life imprisonment.

Prince Fagbemi presented the committee’s report at the Council of State meeting, chaired by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

FuLL LiST Of BeNEFICIARIES Of PrESIDENT TiNUBU’S MeRCY

PaRDONED: PoSTHUMOUS PaRDON; Sir Herbert Macaulay was banned from public office for misappropriation of funds and sentenced in 1913 by the British colonialists.

9. Ken Saro Wiwa. Sentenced for murder
10. Saturday Dobee. Sentenced for murder
11. Nordu Eawa. Sentenced for murder
12. Daniel Gbooko. Sentenced for murder
13. Paul Levera. Sentenced for murder
14. Felix Nuate. Sentenced for murder
15. Baribor Bera. Sentenced for murder
16. Barinem Kiobel. Sentenced for murder
17. John Kpuine. Sentenced for murder

Major-General Mamman Jiya Vatsa, age 46, Sentenced in 1986 for treason: related to an alleged coup plot.

PoSTHUMOUS PaRDON (And Honours): ThE OgONI NiNE, ViCTIMS Of OgONI NiNE HoNOURED:

Chief Albert Badey, Chief Edward Kobaru, Chief Samuel Orage, Chief Theophilus Orage.

PrESIDENTIAL ClEMENCY:
Most of the beneficiaries showed either remorse or learned vocational skills in jail

1. Ben Friday, aged 60, was sentenced to 3 years or ₦1.3 million fine for marijuana in 2023.
2. Aluagwu Lawrence, aged 47, sentenced for Indian hemp (selling), 2015
3. Oroke Micheal Chibueze, aged 21, sentenced to 5 years (cannabis sativa) in 2023.
4. Kelvin Christopher Smith, aged 42, was sentenced to 4 years for importing cocaine in 2023.
5. Azubuike Jeremiah Emeka, aged 31, sentenced in 2021 to 5 years or ₦3 million fine for importing cocaine.
6. Akinrinnade Akinwande Adebiyi, aged 47, sentenced in 2023 to 3 years for dealing in Tramadol.
7. Ahmed Adeyemo, aged 38, sentenced to 15 years for cannabis. Already served nine years, 5 months at Kirikiri.
8. Adeniyi Jimoh, aged 31years, sentenced to 15 years for Drugs in 2015 and served nine years at Kirikiri.
9. Seun Omirinde, aged 39, sentenced to 15 years for Drugs in 2015. Served nine years at Kirikiri.
10. Adesanya Olufemi Paul, aged 61, sentenced to 14 years for theft. Had served eight years.
11. Ife Yusuf, aged 37, was sentenced for human trafficking in 2019. Had served six years at Kirikiri.
12. Daniel Bodunwa, aged 43, was sentenced in 2018 to 10 years for fraudulent intent to forge a land receipt. Had served six years in jail.
13. Fidelis Michael, aged 40, sentenced to 5 years for cannabis sativa.
14. Suru Akande, aged 52, sentenced to 5 years for cannabis sativa.
15. Safiyanu Umar, aged 56, sentenced to 5 years without the option of a fine for possessing 5kg of Cannabis sativa, 2023.
16. Dahiru Abdullahi, aged 46, was sentenced in 2016 to 21 years for possession of 3 pistols and had spent 10 years in jail.
17. Hamza Abubakar, aged 37, sentenced to 5 years for Indian hemp (selling), 2022.
18. Rabiu Alhassan Dawaki, aged 52, sentenced in 2020 to 7 years for criminal breach of trust.
19. Mujibu Muhammad, aged 30, sentenced in 2022 to 5 years, no option for a fine for cannabis.
20. Emmanuel Eze, aged 49, sentenced in 2022 to 5 years for Heroine.
21. Bala Azika Yahaya, aged 70, sentenced in 2017 to 15 years for cannabis.
22. Lina Kusum Wilson, aged 34, sentenced to death in 2017 for culpable homicide, had spent eight years in jail.
23. Buhari Sani, aged 33, sentenced in 2022 to 5 years for possession of 558 grams of cannabis.
24. Mohammed Musa, aged 27, was sentenced in 2022 to 5 years for possession of 16 grams of cannabis.
25. Muharazu Abubakar, aged 37, sentenced in 2022 to 5 years for selling Indian hemp. Already spent 3 years in Katsina Prison.
26. Ibrahim Yusuf, aged 34; jailed 5 years in 2022 for possession of 5.7 grams of Indian hemp.
27. Saad Ahmed Madaki, aged 72; sentenced in 2020 for a 419 offence. Had served 4 years in Kaduna prison.
28. Ex-Corporal Michael Bawa, aged 72: sentenced to life imprisonment for murder in 2005. Had spent 20 years in Kaduna prison.
29. Richard Ayuba, aged 38. Sentenced to 5 years in 2022 for Indian hemp
30. Adam Abubakar, aged 30 and sentenced in 2022 to five years for possession of 2kg of tramadol.
31. Emmanuel Yusuf, aged 34; sentenced in 2022 to 4 years for possession of 2kg of tramadol.
32. Edwin Nnazor, aged 60; sentenced in 2018 to 15 years for cannabis. Had spent 6 years, nine months at Zamfara prison.
33. Chinedu Stanley, aged 34. Sentenced in 2023 to three years for fake lubricant oil.
34. Joseph Nwanoka, aged 42: sentenced in 2022 to five years for drugs.
35. Johnny Ntheru, Aged 63, sentenced in 1989 to life imprisonment for robbery. Had spent 36 years in Umuahia Prison.
36. John Omotiye, Aged 28, sentenced to six years for Pipeline vandalism
37. Nsikat Edet Harry, Aged 37, sentenced in 2023 to 5 years for Illegal possession of Indian hemp, Cocaine, & Heroin.
38. Jonathan Asuquo, Aged 28, sentenced in 2022 to 5 years for possession of Indian hemp & other drugs.
39. Prince Samuel Peters, aged 54, sentenced in 2020 to 7 years for obtaining money by false pretence. Had spent 4 years, 3 months in Ikot Ekpene Prison
40. Babangida Saliu, Aged 35, sentenced in 2024 to 3 years for unlawful mining.
41. Adamu Sanni, aged 39, sentenced in 2024 to 3 years for unlawful mining.
42. Abdulkarem Salisu, aged 30, sentenced to 3 years for unlawful mining.
43. Abdulaziz Lawal, aged 18, sentenced to 3 years for unlawful mining.
44. Abdulrahman Babangida, aged 20, sentenced to 3 years for unlawful mining.
45. Maharazu Alidu, aged 22, sentenced to 3 years for unlawful mining.
46. Zaharadeen Baliue, aged 38, sentenced to 3 years for unlawful mining.
47. Babangida Usman, aged 30, sentenced to 3 years for unlawful mining.
48. Zayyanu Abdullahi, Aged 28, sentenced to 3 years for unlawful mining, 2024
49. Bashir Garuba, Aged 20, sentenced in 2024 to 3 years for unlawful mining
50. Imam Suleman, aged 25, sentenced to 3 years for unlawful mining, 2024
51. Abbeh Amisu, Aged 28, sentenced to 3 years for unlawful mining, 2024
52. Lawani Lurwanu, Aged 20, sentenced to 3 years for unlawful mining, 2024
53. Yusuf Alhassan, aged 33, was sentenced to 3 years for unlawful mining in 2024.
54. Abdulahi Isah, aged 25, sentenced to 3 years for unlawful mining, 2024
55. Zayanu Bello, aged 35, sentenced to 3 years for unlawful mining.
56. Habeeb Suleman, aged 22, sentenced in 2024 to 3 years for unlawful mining.
57. Jubrin Sahabi, aged 23, was sentenced to 3 years in 2024 for unlawful mining.
58. Shefiu Umar, aged 28, was sentenced to 3 years in 2024 for unlawful mining.
59. Seidu Abubakar, age 29, sentenced in 2024 to 3 years for unlawful mining.
60. Haruna Abubakar, Aged 24, was sentenced to 3 years in 2024 for unlawful mining.
61. Rabiu Seidu, aged 26, sentenced in 2024 to 3 years for unlawful mining.
62. Macha Kuru, Aged 25, sentenced in 2024 to 3 years for unlawful mining.
63. Zahradeen Aminu, Aged 25 years, sentenced to 3 years for unlawful mining.
64. Nazipi Musa, aged 25. Sentenced to 3 years for unlawful mining in 2024.
65. Abdullahi Musa, aged 30 and sentenced to 3 years in 2024 for unlawful mining.
66. Habibu Safiu, aged 20 and sentenced to 3 years in 2024 for unlawful mining
67. Husseni Sani, aged 21 and sentenced to 3 years in 2024 for unlawful mining.
68. Musa Lawali, aged 25 and sentenced to 3 years in 2024 for unlawful mining.
69. Suleiman Lawal, aged 23 and sentenced to 3 years in 2024 for unlawful mining..
70. Yusuf Iliyasu, aged 21 and sentenced to 3 years in 2024 for unlawful mining.
71. Sebiyu Aliyu, aged 20 and sentenced to 3 years in 2024 for unlawful mining.
72. Halliru Sani, aged 18 and sentenced to 3 years in 2024 for unlawful mining.
73. Shittu Aliyu, aged 30 and sentenced to 3 years in 2024 for unlawful mining..
74. Sanusi Aminu, aged 27 and sentenced to 3 years in 2024 for unlawful mining
75. Isiaka Adamu, aged 40 and sentenced to 3 years in 2024 for unlawful mining.
76. Mamman Ibrahim, aged 50 and sentenced to 3 years in 2024 for unlawful mining.
77. Shuaibu Abdullahi, aged 35 and sentenced to 3 years in 2024 for unlawful mining.
78. Sanusi Adamu, aged 28 and sentenced to 3 years in 2024 for unlawful mining.
79. Sadi Musa, aged 20 and sentenced to 3 years in 2024 for unlawful mining
80. Haruna Isah, aged 35 and sentenced to 3 years in 2024 for unlawful mining.
    Note: Senator Ikra Aliyu Bilbis signed an undertaking to be responsible for the rehabilitation and empowerment of all the convicted illegal miners granted presidential clemency.
81. Abiodun Elemero, aged 43. Sentenced to life imprisonment for cocaine hawking in 2014. Had spent 10 years plus in Kirikiri.
82. Maryam Sanda, aged 37, was sentenced to death in 2020 for culpable homicide and had spent six years, eight months at Suleja Medium Security Custodial Centre. Her family pleaded for her release, arguing that it was in the best interest of her two children. The plea was also anchored on her good conduct in jail, her remorse, and her embracement of a new lifestyle, demonstrating her commitment to being a model prisoner.

List of Inmates on Death Row Reduced to Life Imprisonment

1. Emmanuel Baba, aged 38: sentenced to death in 2017 for culpable homicide. On death row in Kuje Custodial Centre for the past 8 years. The sentence was commuted to life imprisonment based on good conduct and remorsefulness.
2. Emmanuel Gladstone, aged 45, was sentenced in 2020 to death for murder and had spent five years at Katsina Custodial Centre. Death sentence commuted to life imprisonment due to good conduct and remorse.
3. Moses Ayodele Olurunfemi, aged 51: sentenced to death in 2012 for culpable homicide and had spent 13 years on death row in Katsina. President Tinubu commuted the death sentence to life imprisonment, citing the individual’s good conduct and remorse.
4. Abubakar Usman, aged 59: Sentenced to Death in 2014 and had spent 14 years on death row in Katsina. His sentence was commuted to life because of his remorse and good conduct.
5. Khalifa Umar, aged 37: Sentenced to death in 2014 and had spent 11 years on death row in Kano Custodial Centre. His sentence has been commuted to life imprisonment.
6. Benjamin Ekeze, age 40. Sentenced to death in 2017 for armed robbery and conspiracy, and had spent 12 years on death row at Kirikiri, Lagos. The sentence was also commuted to life.
7. Mohammed Umar, 43: Sentenced to death in 2018 for culpable homicide and had spent seven years on death row in Onitsha Custodial Centre. He got the Presidential reprieve, commuting the death sentence to life imprisonment.

LiST Of InMATES RECOMMENDED FoR ReDUCED TERM OF IMPRISONMENT

1. Yusuf Owolabi, aged 36. Sentenced to life in 2015 for Manslaughter. Had spent 10 years at Kirikiri.Prison term reduced to 12 years for showing remorse and learning vocational skills.
2. Ifeanyi Eze, aged 33. Sentenced to life in 2021 for Manslaughter and had spent four years at Kirikiri. Prison term reduced to 12 years for showing remorse and learning vocational skills.
3. Malam Ibrahim Sulaiman, aged 59. Sentenced to life in 2022 for Armed robbery & possession of illegal firearms. Sentence cut to 10 years based on good conduct
4. Shettima Maaji Arfo, aged 54. Sentenced in 2021 to seven years for Corrupt Practices. Sentence reduced to four years, because of good conduct and ill-health
5. Ajasper Benzeger, aged 69 and sentenced in 2015 to 20 years for Culpable homicide. Sentence reduced to 12 years, based on old age and ill-health.
6. Ifenna Kennechukwu, aged 42. Sentenced in 2015 to 20 years for drugs (cocaine import) and had spent close to 10 years in Kirikiri. Prison term reduced to 12 years based on remorse and the acquisition of vocational skills.
7. Mgbeike Matthew, aged 45. Sentenced to 20 years in 2013 for the import of 3.10kg. Following remorsefulness and the acquisition of vocational skills at Kirikiri. Sentence reduced to 12 years.
8. Patrick Mensah, aged 40. Sentenced in 2015 to 17 years for drugs. Sentence reduced to 11 years
9. Obi Edwin Chukwu, aged 43 and sentenced in 2017 to 15 years for drugs. Sentence reduced to 10 years.
10. Tunde Balogun, aged 32 and sentenced in 2015 to 15 years for drugs. Sentence reduced to 10 years.
11. Lima Pereira Erick Diego, aged 27 and sentenced in 2017 to 15 years or a fine of ₦20 million for drugs. Sentence reduced to 10 years.
12. Uchegbu Emeka Michael, aged 37. Sentenced in 2017 to 15 years or a fine of N20million for drugs. Sentence reduced to 10 years
13. Salawu Adebayo Samsudeen, aged 46 and sentenced in 2016 to 15 years for drugs. Sentence reduced to 10 years.
14. Napolo Osariemen, aged 61 and sentenced in 2022 to 15 years for 2 kilos of Indian hemp. The sentence was reduced to seven years.
15. Patricia Echoe Igninovia, aged 61 and sentenced in 2023 to seven years for trafficking in persons. Sentence reduced to five years.
16. Odeyemi Omolaram, aged 65 and sentenced in 2017 to 25 years in prison for drug. The sentence was reduced to 12 years based on the defendant’s remorsefulness and advanced age.
17. Vera Daniel Ifork, aged 29 and sentenced in 2020 to 10 years for trafficking in persons. Sentence reduced to eight years.
18. Gabriel Juliet Chidimma, aged 32 and sentenced in 2022 to six years for drug (cocaine). Sentence reduced to four years.
19. Dias Santos Marcia Christiana, aged 44 and sentenced in 2017 to 15 years for import of cocaine. Sentence reduced to 10 years.
20. Alhaji Ibrahim Hameed. Aged 71 and sentenced in 2023 to seven years for illegal property (obtaining property under false pretence). Sentence reduced to five years.
21. Alhaji Nasiru Ogara Adinoyi, 65, was sentenced in 2023 to 14 years for obtaining property by false pretence. The sentence was reduced to seven years.
22. Chief Emeka Agbodike, aged 69, was sentenced in 2023 to seven years for obtaining property by false pretence. Sentence reduced to 3 years.
23. Isaac Justina, aged 40. Sentenced in 2022 to 10 years for cannabis sativa and had spent 3 years in the Abeokuta Custodial Centre. Sentence reduced to four years.
24. Aishat Kehinde, aged 38 and sentenced in 2022 to five years for unlawful possession of cannabis. The prison term being served in Abeokuta has been reduced to four years.
25. Helen Solomon, age 68. Sentenced in 2024 to five years for cannabis sativa. Sentence reduced to three years.
26. Okoye Tochukwu, aged 43 and sentenced in 2024 to six years for cannabis sativa. Sentence reduced to 3 years.
27. Ugwueze Paul, aged 38 and sentenced in 2024 to six years for cannabis sativa. Sentence reduced to three years.
28. Mutsapha Ahmed, aged 46 and sentenced in 2022 to seven years without a fine option for criminal breach of trust. The sentence was reduced to five years.
29. Abubakar Mamman, aged 38 and sentenced in 2020 to 10 years in Kebbi Custodial Centre for Possession of firearms. Sentence reduced to seven years.
30. Muhammed Bello Musa, aged 35. Sentenced in 2020 to 10 years in Kebbi Custodial Centre for illegal possession of firearms. Sentence reduced to seven years
31. Nnamdi Anene, aged 67 and sentenced in 2010 to life imprisonment at Katsina Custodial Centre for illegal dealing of arms. Sentence reduced to 20 years.
32. Alh. Abubakar Tanko, aged 61, was sentenced in 2018 to 30 years at the Gusau Custodial Centre for Culpable Homicide. Sentence reduced to 20 years.
33. Chisom Francis Wisdom, aged 30; sentenced in 2018 to 20 years in Umuahia Custodial Centre for kidnapping. Sentence reduced to 12 years.
34. Innocent Brown Idiong, aged 60, sentenced in 2020 to 10 years for possession of 700 grams of Indian Hemp. Has already spent 4 years and 3 months at Ikot Abasi Custodial centre. Jail term reduced to six years.
35. Iniobong Imaeyen Ntukidem, aged 46, was sentenced 2021 to seven years in jail at the Uyo Custodial Centre. Prison term reduced to five years.
36. Ada Audu, aged 72, was sentenced in 2022 to seven years in Kuje Custodial Centre and had spent 2 years and 7 months in prison. Prison term reduced to 4 years because of old age.
37. Bukar Adamu, aged 40 and sentenced to 20 years in 2019 for advance fee fraud. Prison term reduced to nine years.
38. Kelvin Oniarah Ezigbe, 44, was sentenced in October 2023 to 20 years for kidnapping, which took effect in 2013. The sentence was reduced to 13 years for showing remorsefulness and attending the National Open University.
39. Frank Azuekor, aged 42. Sentenced in 2023 for kidnapping and jailed in Kuje Custodial Centre for 20 years, and had spent 12 years behind bars from 2013. The sentence was reduced to 13 years, based on good conduct and attendance at the National Open University.
40. Chukwukelu Sunday Calisthus, aged 47 and sentenced in 2014 to life at Kuje Custodial Centre for drugs. He had spent 11 years at Kuje. Sentence reduced to 13 years.
41. Professor Magaji Garba, aged 67. Sentenced in 2021 to seven years for obtaining money by false pretence and had spent 3 years at Kuje Custodial Centre. The prison term was reduced to four years due to good conduct and advanced age.
42. Markus Yusuf, aged 41. Sentenced in 2023 to 13 years for culpable homicide. Sentence reduced to 5 years based on ill-health
43. Samson Ajayi, aged 31 and sentenced in 2022 to 15 years for drugs. He had spent five years at Suleja Custodial Centre. The sentence was reduced to seven years.
44. Iyabo Binyoyo, aged 49. Sentenced in 2017 to 10 years for drugs and sentenced to nine years at Suleja Custodial Centre, due to good conduct.
45. Oladele Felix, 49, was sentenced in 2022 to five years without a fine option for conspiracy and exploitation. Based on good conduct and remorsefulness, the sentence was reduced to four years. Felix is spending the term at Suleja.
46. Rakiya Beida, aged 33 and sentenced in 2021to seven years, without a fine option, for theft and cheating. The sentence, being served at Suleja, was reduced to three years based on good conduct
47. Nriagu Augustine Ifeanyi, aged 44 and sentenced in 2018 to 10 years in Ikoyi Custodial Centre, for exporting cocaine. The sentence was reduced to eight years.
48. Chukwudi Destiny, aged 36 and sentenced in 2022 to six years in Ikoyi Custodial Centre for heroin import. The sentence was cut to four years.
49. Felix Rotimi Esemokhai, aged 47 and sentenced in 2022 to five years for heroin. The sentence was reduced to four years.
50. Major S.A. Akubo, aged 62, was sentenced in 2009 to life at Katsina Custodial Centre for illegally removing 7,000 assorted weapons. Following good conduct and remorsefulness, the sentence was commuted to 20 years.
51. John Ibiam, aged 39, was sentenced in 2016 to 15 years for manslaughter and served 9 years and one month in the Afikpo Custodial Centre. The sentence was reduced to 10 years after the individual showed remorse and acquired vocational skills.
52. Omoka Aja, aged 40 and sentenced in 2016 to 15 years for manslaughter, served 9 years and 1 month in Afikpo Custodial Centre. The sentence was commuted to 10 years.
53. Chief Jonathan Alatoru, aged 66, was sentenced in 2021 to seven years for conspiracy to cheat. The sentence served in Port Harcourt Custodial Centre has been reduced to five years.
54. Umanah Ekaette Umanah, aged 70 and sentenced in 2022 to 10 years in Port Harcourt Custodial Centre for forgery. Sentence reduced to five years due to old age and remorsefulness.
55. Utom Obong Thomson Udoaka, 60, was sentenced in 2020 to seven years in Ikot Ekpene Custodial Centre for obtaining money by false pretence. He had served four years and two months at Ikot Ekpene. Due to his old age and good conduct, the Initial Sentence has been reduced to five years.
56. Jude Saka Ebaragha, aged 44. Sentenced in 2020 to 12 years at Ikoyi Prison and a fine of ₦1 million for conspiracy to hijack a fishing vessel. The sentence was commuted to six years, and the ₦1 million fine was waived.
57. Frank Insort Abaka, 46, was sentenced in 2020 to 12 years and a ₦1 Million fine at Ikoyi Custodial Centre for conspiracy to hijack a Fishing vessel. The sentence was reduced to six years, and the fine was waived.
58. Shina Alolo, 42, was sentenced in 2020 to 12 years and a ₦1 M fine at Ikoyi Custodial Centre for conspiracy to hijack a fishing vessel. Like others, the N1m fine was waived, and the sentence was reduced to 6 years.
59. Joshua Iwiki, aged 50: Sentenced in 2020 to 12 years at Ikoyi Prison and a fine of ₦1Million for conspiracy to hijack a fishing vessel. A N1m fine was waived, and the sentence was commuted to six years in prison.
60. David Akinseye, aged 44: Sentenced in 2020 to 12 years & ₦1Million fine for conspiracy to hijack a fishing vessel. His sentence was commuted to 6 years, and the fine was waived.
61. Ahmed Toyin, aged 46: Sentenced in 2020 to 12 years & ₦1 Million fine for conspiracy to hijack a fishing vessel. Sentence also commuted and fine waived.
62. Shobajo Saheed, age 57: Sentenced in 2020 to 12 years and a fine of ₦1 Million for conspiracy to hijack a fishing vessel. He got a similar reprieve like the others.
63. Adamole Philip, aged 52 years: Sentenced to 12 years & a ₦1 million fine for conspiracy to hijack a fishing vessel, 2020. Philip also got his term reduced to seven years and the fine waived.
64. Mathew Masi, aged 39: Also sentenced to 12 years and a fine of ₦1 million for conspiracy to hijack a fishing vessel. The sentence was reduced to six years, and the fine was waived.
65. Bright Agbedeyi, 46, was also sentenced in 2020 for conspiracy to hijack a fishing vessel. Like the others in his category, he got a reprieve from President Tinubu. Signed, Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President, Information and Strategy on October 11, 2025.

Osazuwa Akonedo

Osazuwa Akonedo is a Nigerian media professional, author, and consultant. His work spans various sectors of communication and literature: Journalism and Media: He is the founder of OsazuwaAkonedo, which focuses on news analysis and commentary. He also provides consultancy services in media and banking. Literature: He is a published playwright and author of Nigerian literature. One of his notable works is the drama titled The End Shall Tell: What Exam Malpractice Can Cause, which addresses educational and social issues in Nigeria. Reporting: He frequently reports on regional news, particularly concerning Edo State and broader Nigerian current affairs. Credit: Google Gemini AI Mode Osazuwa Akonedo is a Nigerian media creator, journalist, and entrepreneur who engages audiences via news reporting, social media content, music, and a mobile application. Professional Background and Company Osazuwa Akonedo is associated with OSAZUWAAKONEDO LIMITED, a company registered in Nigeria that operates in media consultancy and news services  The company is headquartered in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria, and has been active in publishing news in various formats including text, audio, video, and photos  Social Media and Online Platforms Osazuwa Akonedo maintains a strong online presence on several platforms: TikTok: Shares news updates and reports, for example, covering police operations in Nigeria  YouTube: Operates a channel where he uploads videos on current affairs and news content  Twitter/X: Active under the handle @akonedo_osazuwa, posting updates on events and news  Facebook: Profiles listing his connection to news and media activities can be found on Facebook  Mobile App: Offers a dedicated mobile application for news access through Google Play (Osazuwa Akonedo News App) providing text, video, and photo news formats  News Reporting and Content He produces news content covering national and local stories, including criminal activities, government updates, and investigative reports   His reporting spans multiple formats, making it accessible to a wide audience through online platforms, mobile apps, and social media  Other Contributions In addition to journalism, Osazuwa Akonedo has also ventured into audio releases, such as “Former Justice Minister Abubakar Malami Begs Nigerians For Justice” released on January 25, 2026   He also hosts podcasts documenting significant events, e.g, NDLEA arrests related to historical criminal cases  Summary Osazuwa Akonedo is a multifaceted media professional engaged in journalism, social media content creation, music, and technology via his news app. He utilizes platforms like TikTok, YouTube, Twitter/X, Facebook, and mobile applications to disseminate news and reach audiences both locally and internationally Credit: Azure AI

Linkedin Tiktok Facebook Twitter Instagram Youtube