Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani has granted clemency to 27 inmates serving various sentences in correctional facilities across the state as part of activities marking Nigeria’s 66th Independence anniversary.

The latest exercise brings to more than 500 the number of inmates who have benefited from the governor’s prerogative of mercy since he assumed office in 2023.

The Commissioner for Information and Culture, Ahmed Maiyaki, announced the development in a statement issued on Friday.

According to the statement, the government has also paid more than N300 million in fines and compensation for victims since 2023 as part of its interventions to help eligible inmates regain their freedom.

The Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, James Kanyip, said the latest clemency exercise followed similar initiatives conducted during New Year, Democracy Day and previous Independence Day celebrations.

Kanyip said the prerogative of mercy was exercised through established procedures, with consideration given to accountability, rehabilitation and the responsibilities that come with freedom.

“The beneficiaries are expected to return to society with a renewed sense of responsibility and appreciation of their obligations to others,” he said.

He added that the government’s intervention went beyond releasing inmates to addressing financial barriers that could prevent eligible prisoners from securing their freedom. According to him, the payment of fines and compensation also introduced a restorative justice component by recognising victims’ interests while supporting the reintegration of beneficiaries.

“Public safety, human dignity, rehabilitation and the possibility of redemption should form part of the administration of justice,” Kanyip said.

The state government said it would continue to support rehabilitation, reconciliation and the reintegration of deserving inmates into their families and communities.