Tinubu approves new clemency list, excludes Maryam Sanda

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved a new list of individuals granted clemency and presidential pardons — with notable exclusions, including Maryam Sanda, who was sentenced to death in 2020 for the murder of her husband, Bilyaminu Bello.

In a statement released on Wednesday by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu signed the official instrument of clemency, exercising his constitutional power of prerogative of mercy as provided under Section 175 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

The statement explained that the approval followed extensive consultations with the Council of State and a comprehensive review of the previously approved list.

According to the presidency, individuals convicted of serious crimes — such as kidnapping, drug trafficking, human trafficking, fraud, and illegal possession or trafficking of firearms — were removed from consideration. Others previously pardoned in earlier lists had their sentences commuted.

Those granted presidential pardon under the Instrument of Presidential Prerogative of Mercy (Grant of Pardon) 2025 include:
Mrs. Anastasia Daniel Nwaobia, Barr. Hussaini Alhaji Umar, Ayinla Saadu Alanamu, Hon. Farouk M. Lawan, Herbert Macaulay, Major General Mamman Jiya Vatsa, Ken Saro-Wiwa, Saturday Dobee, Nordu Eawo, Daniel Gbooko, Paul Levera, Felix Nuale, Baribor Bera, Barinem Kiobel, and John Kpuine.

Additionally, four death sentences were commuted to life imprisonment under the Instrument of Presidential Prerogative of Mercy (Commutation of Death Sentence to Life Imprisonment) 2025.
The beneficiaries are Emmanuel Baba, Abubakar Usman, Khalifa Umar, and Mohammed Umar.

The State House noted that the exercise was guided by considerations of justice, national security, public sensitivity, and respect for the rights of victims.

“The President appreciated the constructive feedback and engagement from stakeholders and the general public on this matter,” the statement read.
“President Tinubu also reaffirmed his administration’s broader commitment to judicial reforms and improving the administration of justice in Nigeria.”