National Telescope national telescope newspaper
By Ekpenyong Emmanuel
Cross River State Governor, Bassey Otu, has exercised his prerogative of mercy by granting pardon and clemency to 45 inmates at the Afokang Correctional Centre in Calabar. The governor’s decision, which was made in the spirit of the new year, is aimed at decongesting the prison and giving a second chance to deserving inmates.
According to a statement from the governor’s office, the pardon was granted in line with Section 212 (1) (a) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 as (Amended). The governor’s action is expected to ease the pressure on the prison facilities and allow for a more conducive environment for the rehabilitation of inmates.
The 45 inmates who benefited from the governor’s clemency were convicted of minor offences and had been serving their sentences at the Afokang Correctional Centre. Their release is expected to reunite them with their families and loved ones, and give them a chance to turn their lives around.
Governor Otu’s decision to grant clemency to the 45 inmates has been hailed as a humanitarian gesture, and is expected to have a positive impact on the lives of the affected inmates and their families. The governor’s office has confirmed that the necessary arrangements have been made for the release of the 45 inmates, and they are expected to be reintegrated into society soon.
The move is seen as a demonstration of the governor’s commitment to the welfare and rehabilitation of inmates, and is expected to be a model for other states to follow. By granting clemency to the 45 inmates, Governor Otu has given them a second chance to make amends and become productive members of society.
