Popular Nigerian actress Kemi Afolabi has reacted to President Bola Tinubu’s recent presidential pardon that included individuals convicted of murder and drug trafficking, describing the decision as deeply concerning.
New Daily Prime recalls that President Tinubu granted a presidential pardon to 175 convicts, including 28 drug traffickers, 41 illegal miners, and 22 murderers, according to a statement issued by Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Information.
The controversial decision has sparked outrage among Nigerians, with civil groups, political figures, and members of the public calling for its reversal.
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Reacting via her Instagram story, Kemi Afolabi urged Nigerians to prioritise their personal safety and never allow anyone to endanger their lives, regardless of the relationship involved.
“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.
The actress also expressed solidarity with the family of the late Bilyaminu Ahmed, condemning the inclusion of Maryam Sanda, who was convicted for his murder, among the pardoned individuals.
New Daily Prime reports that Maryam Sanda was sentenced to death by hanging in January 2020 after being found guilty of killing her husband, Bilyaminu Bello, in 2017.
Afolabi’s reaction echoes the growing public frustration over what many view as a misguided act of clemency, with critics arguing that it undermines justice and sends the wrong message about accountability in Nigeria’s legal system.
