Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri has granted a Christmas pardon to Sunday Jackson, the farmer controversially sentenced to death after killing a herder in self-defence during an attack on his farm.
The pardon, announced on Tuesday, has been welcomed by farmers and rights advocates across the state, marking an end to a case that had sparked nationwide debate over the criminalisation of farmers defending their livelihoods.
Jackson was convicted following a violent confrontation with a herder on his farmland, despite claims of self-defence.
His sentencing to death and subsequent transfer to the Kuje Medium Security Custodial Centre in Abuja had ignited outrage among human rights activists and rural communities.
For years, his case symbolised the risks farmers face in protecting their lives and property.
Governor Fintiri, exercising his constitutional prerogative of mercy, acted on recommendations from the Adamawa State Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy.
Jackson’s improved conduct in custody contributed to the decision, alongside two other pardoned inmates and the remission of sentences for five additional prisoners.
The pardon has reignited discussions about the need to protect farmers in conflict-prone areas.
Experts argue that cases like Jackson’s underscore the importance of policy reforms to safeguard agricultural workers, promote rural security, and encourage climate-smart, sustainable farming practices.
“This pardon has not only restored justice for Sunday Jackson but has also sent a strong message to farmers across Adamawa,” said local agricultural advocate Chi Tola Roberts.
“It highlights the critical need for systems that protect livelihoods while integrating modern farming practices and conflict mitigation strategies.”
While the government avoided revisiting the specifics of the case, the pardon has been widely interpreted as an acknowledgement that Jackson’s death sentence was unjust.
Farmers and communities are now calling for broader legal and institutional support to prevent future conflicts and secure Nigeria’s agricultural workforce.
Source: Sahara Report
Image Credit: ICIR
