Tinubu’s Compassionate Release of 119 Protest Suspects; Kaduna, Kano Governors Vow Support for Reintegration.
In a strong call for accountability and positive change, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has urged 119 pardoned suspects involved in the August 1 protests in Kano and Kaduna States to embrace responsible citizenship and avoid actions that could lead to violence or property destruction.
The message was delivered on Tuesday by Vice President Kashim Shettima during a formal handover ceremony at the Presidential Villa, where 112 of the suspects were released to their state governors. Seven others had previously been granted bail, with three released to their parents, bringing the total to 119 pardoned individuals.
Addressing the suspects in both English and Hausa, Vice President Shettima conveyed the President’s desire to extend compassion to those in distress. Despite evidence against them, including the destruction of public and private property valued in billions of naira, President Tinubu ordered the release on humanitarian grounds. “This pardon is an opportunity for each of you to rebuild your lives and contribute meaningfully to your communities,” Shettima remarked.
A Call for Rehabilitation and Reintegration
Shettima also urged the Kaduna and Kano State governments to facilitate the suspects’ rehabilitation and reintegration into society. “This is a critical step to not only restore social stability but to enable these young Nigerians to forge paths of positive impact,” he added.
Both states have committed to prioritizing the suspects’ reformation, with Kaduna State Governor Sen. Uba Sani pledging support for educational or vocational initiatives that will steer them towards responsible citizenship. “This is a moment to reflect, grow, and become better citizens,” Sani said, affirming the state’s partnership with stakeholders to guide the released suspects in finding productive opportunities.
Similarly, Kano State Governor Engr Abba Yusuf acknowledged the gesture as an illustration of President Tinubu’s compassion, emphasizing that the state government will ensure robust programs for the effective reintegration of the suspects.
National Leaders Commend President’s Compassionate Leadership
Deputy Senate President Sen. Jibrin Barau echoed similar sentiments, calling the release a “demonstration of presidential empathy.” He encouraged the pardoned individuals to seize the opportunity for a fresh start, adding his gratitude to President Tinubu for providing a pathway to forgiveness and societal reintegration.
The event concluded with a symbolic handover of the suspects to the governors, marking a pivotal moment in the government’s commitment to providing second chances for at-risk individuals.
The ceremony was attended by notable figures, including the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, who confirmed that all pardoned suspects had been medically cleared before release. Other officials included the Minister of Environment, Engr Balarabe Lawal; Minister of State for Humanitarian Affairs, Dr. Yusuf Sununu; and House Appropriations Committee Chair Hon. Abubakar Bichi.
