The family of late Bilyaminu Bello has strongly condemned the decision of President Bola Tinubu to grant a presidential pardon to his convicted wife, Maryam Sanda.
Sanda, who was sentenced to death in 2020 for killing her husband, was among 175 inmates recently released under the President’s prerogative of mercy policy.
According to a statement issued on Monday by Dr Bello Mohammed, on behalf of the family, the decision has reopened old wounds and brought back memories of the tragic incident that shook the nation eight years ago.
‘Worst possible injustice,’ says victim’s relatives
The family described the clemency as “the worst possible injustice any family could experience,” lamenting that it undermines years of judicial processes that confirmed Sanda’s guilt at every level of appeal.
They stressed that the convicted woman had shown no remorse throughout the trial and incarceration, adding that her release “trivialises a cold-blooded murder” and disrespects the memory of their late son.
The family recalled that both the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court upheld the death sentence, offering some closure before the recent pardon nullified their hope for lasting justice.
Tinubu’s decision raises questions on fairness
The statement further accused the Federal Government of prioritising the feelings of Sanda’s relatives over the pain of the victim’s family and disregarding the sanctity of judicial rulings.
They argued that the President’s mercy gesture was politically and emotionally motivated rather than guided by justice, warning that such actions could set a dangerous precedent for serious crimes.
Despite their disappointment, the family said they would leave the matter to God, describing Him as the “ultimate judge” who would deliver true justice on the day of recompense.