Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Fintiri has granted state pardon to Sunday Jackson, a farmer who spent about 11 years on death row for killing a herdsman during an attack on his farm.
The pardon, approved on December 23, 2025, followed the governor’s Christmas and New Year clemency exercise.
The governor acted on the recommendation of the Adamawa State Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy, which reviewed Jackson’s case along with others.
Officials said the council considered the length of time Jackson had spent on death row and broader humanitarian factors.
Governor Fintiri said the clemency was aimed at balancing justice with compassion.
“This exercise reflects our commitment to fairness, rehabilitation, and the humane application of the law,” he said.
“Were circumstances demand mercy, government will not hesitate to act in the public interest.”
The council also recommended, and the governor approved, full pardons for two other inmates and commuted the sentences of five prisoners based on good conduct and evidence of reform.
Human rights and faith-based groups welcomed Jackson’s release after years of advocacy, saying his case highlighted wider farmer–herder tensions.
“This decision brings closure to a long and painful chapter,” one advocacy group said, calling the pardon “a step toward justice and reconciliation.”
U.S. Congressman Riley Moore also praised the decision, noting he had previously advocated for Jackson’s release.
“I welcome the governor’s action, and I am grateful that Sunday Jackson will finally regain his freedom,” Moore said.
Jackson’s pardon ends more than a decade on death row and renews debate on the role of executive clemency in addressing controversial convictions and public confidence in the justice system.
