Kogi Governor Ododo Grants Clemency to 101 Inmates

On October 1, 2026, Kogi State Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo announced the granting of executive clemency to 91-year-old Lamidi Mohammed Garuba and 100 other inmates as part of Nigeria's 66th Independence Anniversary celebrations. The clemency for Garuba was specifically granted on medical grounds.

Governor Ododo stated that the clemency exercise was conducted in accordance with the constitutional prerogative of mercy, emphasizing rehabilitation, remorse, and public interest. He inaugurated the Kogi State Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy on September 2, 2026, chaired by Attorney-General Muizudeen Yunus Abdullahi, which reviewed cases and correctional reports.

The council's recommendations considered factors such as age, health, conduct in custody, and community support. A total of 94 inmates received mercy based on old age and medical conditions, while seven others had their sentences remitted.

Governor Ododo underscored that this decision does not diminish the seriousness of the offences committed.