Tinubu Withdraws Sanda’s Pardon, Reduces Death Sentence to 12 Years

President Bola Tinubu has reversed the presidential pardon earlier granted to Maryam Sanda, who was sentenced to death in 2020 for the murder of her husband, Bilyaminu Bello.

In a new directive announced on Wednesday, Tinubu commuted Sanda’s death sentence to 12 years’ imprisonment instead of a full pardon. The change was confirmed through an official gazette signed by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.

According to the document, Sanda, who has already served over six years at the Suleja Custodial Centre, was granted a reduced term on compassionate grounds for good conduct and in consideration of her two children.

Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), explained that the decision followed a review of the initial clemency list after consultations with the Council of State. He said some beneficiaries were delisted while others had their sentences reduced to ensure fairness and compliance with due process.

The presidency stated that the review reflects Tinubu’s aim to balance justice with compassion and strengthen Nigeria’s correctional reforms.