By Akinwale Kasali
The Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, Northern Chapter, has showered encomium on Governor Ahmadu Fintiri for granting full pardon to a Christian farmer, Sunday Jackson, who was sentenced to death.
Jackson was sentenced to death following a violent attack on his farm by a herdsman during which he killed the armed herdsmen who tried to kill him.
In the state pardon by Governor Fintiri to mark Christmas and New Year Jackson was fortunate to have been granted clemency. That sparked spontaneous jubilation across Yola, Adamawa State Capital, with residents trooping to the streets to celebrate the development.
Reacting to this development, Rev. Joseph Hayab, Chairman, Northern CAN and Secretary-General, Bishop Mohammed Naga, described the earlier conviction as a miscarriage of justice, saying the governor’s intervention restored public confidence in fairness and the rule of law.
“The grant of clemency brings relief and affirms the principle that self-defence in the face of mortal danger should not be criminalised while terrorists and their advocates walk freely in our society”, the statement said.
Northern CAN said Christmas offers Nigerians “an opportunity for sober reflection on the moral conscience of the nation and the social direction of our country. Christmas calls the nation to peace, justice, compassion and respect for the sanctity of human life.’’
The group commended individuals, faith-based organisations, and community leaders who distributed palliatives and supported vulnerable citizens during the festive season, describing such gestures as “a reflection of enduring values of love and shared responsibility.”
The Christian Group applauded the Federal Government’s recent designation of kidnappers, bandits, and other violent criminal groups as terrorists, saying the move strengthened the national security framework and demonstrated a firm commitment to confronting insecurity.
The Northern CAN praised the Armed Forces and other security agencies for their sacrifices in the defence of lives and property, urging them to remain resolute until insecurity is decisively addressed.
“The continued existence of terrorism, banditry and kidnapping has caused immense pain to individuals, families and communities, leaving scars that many may never fully recover from,” the statement lamented.
It called on leaders at all levels to uphold justice, equity, and the rule of law, while urging citizens to remain law-abiding and committed to peaceful coexistence and national unity.
“As the nation celebrates Christmas, let us support our leaders, pray for the healing of our land and work collectively for a safer, more just and more united Nigeria,” the statement said.
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