By Kingston Magare 24.12.2025
Sunday Jackson who was on death row for killing a Fulani herdsman in self defence has been pardoned by the Adamawa State governor Ahmadu Fintiri.
Mr. Jackson overpowered the Fulani herder who had attacked him while he was working in his farm. His case received worldwide attention after the Nigeria Supreme Court upheld the judgements of lower courts sentencing him to death.
In a statement signed by Humwashi Wonosikou, chief press secretary to Adamawa governor, announced Mr Jackson’s pardon on Tuesday, saying it was done in the Spirit of the Christmas season.
“Adamawa State Governor, Rt. Hon Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri CON, has granted pardon to Sunday Jackson who was sentenced to death,” the statement reads. “The pardon is in commemoration of Christmas and New Year celebrations.”
“Jackson who is in Kuje Medium Security Custodial Centre has been pardoned alongside Joseph Eugene from the Medium Security Custodial Centre Yola new and Maxwell Ibrahim serving at the Medium Security Custodial Center in Kaduna.”
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.
“Where circumstances demand mercy, the 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.”