80 inmates breathe air of freedom in Niger

Eighty inmates in different correctional centers in Niger state have received perogative of mercy from the state governor, Umaru Bago.

According to a statement by the Secretary to the state government (SSG), Abubakar Usman, the gesture is among activities to mark 2023 Democracy Day.

Usman explained that the affected inmates were pardoned “based on recommendation of the State Advisory Council on prerogative of mercy with due consideration to old age, ill health and good behavior”.

He appealed to the inmates to shun acts that could lead them back to the correctional facility and instead, make good use of their freedom by engaging in useful ventures and taking advantage of empowerment windows.

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The SSG also called on the people of Niger to use the period to reflect on their roles in peace building and support for good governance.

He encouraged them to support the administration’s programmes designed to bring rapid development to the state, assuring that the state government will ensure dividends of democracy to the people.

He urged people of the state not to allow despondency to replace hope, adding that they should renew commitment to strengthening democratic institutions and imbibing tolerance, patriotism and discipline.

Usman said the state government is very concerned about the security challenges in the state and fully prepared to tackle the situation.