By Fatima Mukhtar
The Presidency has explained the reason behind President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s decision to grant clemency to Maryam Sanda, who was earlier sentenced to death for killing her husband in 2020.
According to a statement from the Presidential Villa, the President’s decision was guided by compassion and consideration for the welfare of Sanda’s children.
Presidential aide, Bayo Onanuga, clarified that the move was not a full pardon but a commutation of her death sentence to 12 years imprisonment. He added that the President exercised his constitutional power of mercy under Section 175 of the 1999 Constitution.
“Her case was reviewed carefully, and the President took into account the fact that her children are still young. This is not a pardon but an act of clemency based on compassion,” Onanuga said.
The Presidency further described the offence as a crime of passion rather than a premeditated act, noting that the decision to temper justice with mercy does not undermine the rule of law.
Officials also stated that the revised pardon list which included Sanda, reflects the administration’s commitment to fairness and responsiveness to public concern.
“The President’s revision of the pardon list shows leadership and strength. It demonstrates that mercy and justice can coexist,” the statement added.
Maryam Sanda was convicted and sentenced to death by hanging in 2020 after being found guilty of killing her husband, Bilyaminu Bello, during a domestic dispute in Abuja.
Her case attracted nationwide attention, sparking debates about domestic violence, justice, and gender in Nigeria’s legal system.
With this latest development, Maryam Sanda’s sentence has officially been commuted to 12 years imprisonment.
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