IHRC-RFT Nigeria Hails President Tinubu’s Pardon of Detained Protesters, Calls for Judicial Independence

The Nigeria Chapter of the International Human Rights Commission – Relief Fund Trust (IHRC-RFT) has praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s decision to grant clemency to 119 individuals detained during protests in Kano and Kaduna on August 1.

IHRC-RFT, which holds special consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council, called the pardon a compassionate step toward justice, fairness, and reintegration in Nigeria.

In a statement signed by Ambassador Abdullahi Bakoji Adamu, Country Director of IHRC-RFT Nigeria Chapter, the organization highlighted that the pardon aligns with the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) and Nigeria’s Constitution, emphasizing the rights to equality and fair treatment.

The release follows advocacy efforts from NGOs, legal representatives, and community leaders across both states. “This act of clemency demonstrates a respect for citizens’ rights to justice and dignity,” the statement read.

IHRC-RFT also commended Vice President Kashim Shettima, noting his role in backing the government’s commitment to reintegration.

The organization extended its gratitude to the governors of Kano and Kaduna States and the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, who facilitated the return of the pardoned individuals to their communities.

In addition to celebrating this clemency, IHRC-RFT urged the federal government to reinforce judicial independence, describing it as a cornerstone of democracy that ensures impartiality in upholding the law.

“A judiciary free from external influence is essential to protecting human rights and fostering a just society,” Ambassador Adamu emphasized.

Ambassador Adamu also applauded the advocacy efforts that led to the pardon, stressing the importance of collective action in advancing justice.

He called on the pardoned individuals to use this second chance for positive societal contributions.