The Bala Mohammed‑led government of Bauchi State granted executive pardon to 73 inmates on Wednesday, March 4, 2026, during a ceremony held at the Government House in Bauchi. The governor urged residents to support the reintegration of the beneficiaries into society.
The clemency, given under Section 212 of the Constitution, was announced at an event that coincided with the holy month of Ramadan, with each pardoned inmate receiving N100,000 to help them rebuild their lives.
Mohammed described the decision as a balance between justice and mercy, noting that it was not routine but based on careful evaluation of conduct, remorse, health considerations, and length of sentence served by the inmates.
He said the gesture reflects the administration’s commitment to humane correctional reforms and social harmony, stressing that the support is meant to aid reintegration rather than serve as charity.
“At this moment of mercy, we are choosing restoration over perpetual condemnation,” the governor said, urging beneficiaries to make positive contributions to society and avoid returning to crime.
Mohammed also called on families, religious, and community leaders to embrace the former inmates with guidance and support, warning that rejection could push them back toward criminal behaviour.
At the ceremony, the Controller of Corrections for Bauchi State, Monday Teboh, praised the pardon and appealed to the public not to stigmatise the released inmates, noting that societal support is crucial for their successful reintegration.
