Notable Nigerian Governors Convicted for Corruption

Nigeria's fight against corruption has led to the conviction of several high-profile politicians. James Ibori, former governor of Delta State (1999-2007), was sentenced to 13 years in prison by Southwark Crown Court in London in 2012 for fraud and money laundering.

He was released in December 2016. Joshua Dariye, who governed Plateau State (1999-2007), was convicted in 2018 for diverting ecological funds and initially sentenced to 14 years; this was later reduced to 10 years by the Supreme Court in March 2021.

He received a presidential pardon in August 2022. Jolly Nyame, former governor of Taraba State (1999-2007), was convicted in May 2018 for diverting ₦1.64 billion and sentenced to 12 years, a term affirmed by the Supreme Court in February 2020.

He also benefited from a presidential pardon in 2022. Lucky Igbinedion, former governor of Edo State (1999-2007), was also convicted for financial crimes.