Presidency Clarifies Maryam Sanda’s Clemency, Not Pardon

The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Mr Bayo Onanuga, has clarified that Maryam Sanda, the woman convicted for the murder of her husband, Bilyaminu Bello, was granted clemency and not a full pardon by President Bola Tinubu.

Speaking during an interview on Arise News, Onanuga explained that the President’s decision was guided by compassion, not an attempt to absolve her of guilt. He described Sanda’s case as a “crime of passion,” noting that situations between couples can sometimes escalate in the heat of the moment.

“Hers was a crime of passion — anything can happen between a man and a woman in the heat of the moment. The President was moved by compassion,” Onanuga said.

He emphasized that Sanda’s clemency should not be misconstrued as a total pardon or exoneration. According to him, the decision followed careful consideration of her conduct in custody and the welfare of her two young children.

Onanuga further explained that the President’s gesture was in line with the administration’s broader review of clemency cases, where inmates who have shown remorse and good behavior are considered for sentence reduction.

Maryam Sanda was sentenced to death by hanging in 2020 after being found guilty of killing her husband during a domestic dispute in Abuja. Her case attracted widespread public attention and debate over gender, justice, and emotional crimes.

The clarification from the presidency comes amid mixed reactions to her inclusion in the list of beneficiaries of presidential clemency.

While some Nigerians see the decision as an act of mercy, others have criticized it, arguing that it undermines the justice system.

Onanuga, however, maintained that the President acted within constitutional powers and in accordance with humanitarian principles.

“The President’s action reflects the spirit of compassion that guides our justice reforms,” he added.

Maryam Sanda’s sentence has since been commuted, and she remains in custody to serve a reduced term rather than facing execution.