Percy Onyeka
No fewer than 39 convicted inmates across custodial centers in Gombe State have been pardoned; 26 are to be released unconditionally, while 13 others’ terms have been shortened.
Disclosing this on Monday during a statewide broadcast to commemorate the 2024 new year, Governor Muhammadu Yahaya said it was based on the recommendation of the state advisory council on the prerogative of mercy.
He urged the beneficiaries to distance themselves from criminal activities capable of returning them to correctional centres.
He said, “In the spirit of the new year, and based on the recommendation of the state advisory council on the prerogative of mercy, I have granted clemency to 39 convicted inmates in our custodial centres, out of which 26 inmates will be granted unconditional pardon, while the remaining 13 have their sentences commuted to shorter periods. It is our hope that the beneficiaries will turn a new leaf and embrace this opportunity for a fresh start.”
Speaking on the economic situation in the state, Yahaya noted that the removal of fuel subsidy, though a painful yet necessary decision, has resulted in a rising cost of living and economic hardships among Nigerians, adding that 90,000 across the state would benefit from its next phase of palliatives distribution.
“Over the past six months, we have introduced policies like wage grants to civil servants, food and agricultural support, and other palliative measures aimed at cushioning the side effects of the resulting economic shocks. The first phase of our food palliative intervention, which was rolled out in August 2023, targeted 420,000 poor and vulnerable people among us.
“Tomorrow, we are rolling out the second phase of our palliative food distribution program, targeting about 90,000 beneficiaries across the state. Already, a committee has been set up under the chairmanship of H.E. Deputy Governor, with representation of various stakeholders to take charge of this responsibility.
“Let me use this opportunity to commend our people for their resilience and understanding during these trying times. As we brace for tougher challenges in 2024, and as we begin to invest the gains of fuel subsidy removal in areas that deliver long-term growth and inclusive development, I have no doubt that together we shall weather the storms and emerge stronger,” Yahaya added.
The governor noted that in 2024, his administration’s focus would be on building a Gombe State that leaves no one behind, adding, “as articulated in our recently passed 2024 budget christened the “budget of continuity and consolidation.” We will continue to invest in education, healthcare, infrastructure, agriculture, job creation, peace and security. We shall continue to harness our human and natural resources in order to put Gombe State on the path of sustainable progress and all-inclusive development.”
