Nollywood actress Kemi Afolabi has expressed outrage over President Bola Tinubu’s recent decision to grant presidential pardons to several convicted criminals, including individuals found guilty of murder and drug trafficking.
The Nigerian government announced on Monday that 175 inmates had been granted clemency, among them 28 drug traffickers, 41 illegal miners, and 22 convicted murderers. The move, confirmed by presidential adviser Bayo Onanuga, has triggered widespread criticism from citizens, politicians, and civil society groups.
Reacting via her Instagram story, Afolabi urged Nigerians to value and protect their lives amid growing outrage over the release of violent offenders.
“Do not allow anyone to take your life, guard it with all your being — be it in marriage, friendship, courtship or any kind of relationship,” she wrote.
Her comments came shortly after the family of Bilyaminu Ahmed, who was murdered in 2017 by his wife Maryam Sanda, condemned the federal government’s decision to pardon Sanda, who was sentenced to death by hanging in 2020.
The development has reignited debates about justice reform and accountability, with many Nigerians questioning the moral and legal grounds for releasing convicted killers while victims’ families continue to seek closure.
