President Bola Tinubu has granted clemency to Maryam Sanda, the woman convicted in 2020 for the killing of her husband, Bilyaminu Bello, son of a former PDP chairman, Haliru Bello. Sanda, who was sentenced to death by hanging after being found guilty of culpable homicide, has now been released from prison following a presidential pardon.
Her name was included among 175 inmates granted clemency under a presidential prerogative of mercy initiative. According to reports, her release was influenced by her good conduct while in custody, expressions of remorse, and appeals from her family, especially considering the welfare of her young children.
Sanda had spent over six years at the Suleja Medium Security Custodial Centre before the pardon. Her release has since sparked public debate, with opinions divided over the president’s decision and its implications for justice and rehabilitation.
