Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, has approved clemency for 27 inmates in correctional facilities across the state as part of activities marking Nigeria’s 66th Independence anniversary.

The latest exercise brings the number of inmates who have benefited from clemency interventions under his administration to more than 500 since he assumed office in May 2023.

The Commissioner for Information and Culture, Ahmed Maiyaki, announced the development in a statement issued on Friday, October 2, 2026. He explained that the intervention forms part of the state government's efforts to support rehabilitation, reconciliation and the reintegration of deserving inmates into society.

According to the statement, the administration's interventions have gone beyond the release of eligible prisoners to include the payment of fines and compensation. The state government said it had committed more than ₦300 million to these payments since 2023.

The Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, James Kanyip, said the latest clemency exercise followed the governor's practice of extending mercy to deserving inmates during major national occasions.

He noted that similar interventions had taken place during New Year celebrations, Democracy Day and previous Independence Day anniversaries.

Kanyip explained that the exercise followed established procedures and considered accountability, rehabilitation and the responsibilities that come with regaining freedom. He said beneficiaries were expected to return to their communities with a renewed commitment to responsible conduct.

The Attorney-General also highlighted the importance of paying fines and compensation for eligible cases, explaining that financial obligations can sometimes prevent deserving inmates from securing their release. He said addressing such barriers while recognising victims' interests gives the initiative a restorative justice component.

The state government maintained that its approach to clemency was guided by public safety, respect for human dignity and the belief that people should have opportunities to reform and rebuild their lives.

It also said the intervention would help beneficiaries reconnect with their families and communities, while encouraging them to make positive contributions after their release.

Kaduna's latest announcement follows an earlier clemency exercise in June 2026, when Governor Sani approved the release of 97 inmates to mark Democracy Day. That intervention was also presented as part of the administration's rehabilitation and reintegration efforts.

The latest development has once again brought attention to the role of executive clemency in the justice system, particularly its potential to provide deserving inmates with another opportunity while considering the interests of victims and the wider community.

The Kaduna State Government says it will continue to support measures aimed at rehabilitation, reconciliation and the responsible return of eligible beneficiaries to society.