The Digest:
President Bola Tinubu has granted clemency to Maryam Sanda, who was sentenced to death for the 2020 killing of her husband, Bilyaminu Bello. The pardon, announced by Special Adviser Bayo Onanuga, concludes a highly publicized case that highlighted issues of domestic conflict and judicial process, freeing Sanda after six years and eight months in the Suleja prison.
Key Points:
- Maryam Sanda was sentenced to death by hanging in January 2020 for culpable homicide.
- The case stemmed from a domestic dispute during which she fatally stabbed her husband.
- President Tinubu's clemency decision was based on her family's plea and her children's welfare.
- Officials cited her "good conduct," remorse, and embrace of a new lifestyle in custody.
- Her trial was marked by numerous delays, including witness issues and lawyer withdrawals.
- Sanda is one of 175 convicts granted a pardon or sentence reduction by the president.
- The mass clemency considered factors like old age, vocational skills, and educational enrollment.
Sources: Premium Times
