By Ndahi Marama

Maiduguri—Governor Kashim Shettima of Borno State has granted pardon to 15 convicts serving various jail terms in the state in exercise of his power as governor to grant prerogative of mercy to convicted persons.

Shettima, who was represented by the outgoing Attorney General of the state and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Kaka Shehu Lawan, said he granted amnesty to the 15 convicts after carefully scrutinising the application for amnesty presented to him for 37 inmates of Maiduguri and Biu prisons.

He said 10 of the 15 prisoners, who received pardon, were from Maiduguri prisons, while the remaining five were picked from Biu prisons.

“We received 37 applications and after thorough scrutiny, 15 inmates were qualified for pardon,” the governor said.

“He also announced a donation of two cows and assorted foodstuffs to the prisons to ensure the inmates celebrate democracy day like others who enjoy freedom,” he said.

Beside, the governor announced donation of N50,000 to each of the female inmates, while each of the 15 pardoned inmates was given undisclosed amounts to assist them purchase clothing and handle their transport fare to their respective communities.