Tinubu grants presidential pardon to Ken Saro-Wiwa, others; confers National Honours on fallen heroes

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has granted a full presidential pardon to late environmental activist Ken Saro-Wiwa and eight others collectively known as the Ogoni Nine, nearly three decades after their controversial execution by the military regime of General Sani Abacha.

The president made the historic announcement on Thursday as part of events commemorating the 2025 Democracy Day celebration, describing the move as part of his administration’s commitment to national reconciliation, healing, and justice.

“The Federal Government has decided to grant a full pardon to Ken Saro-Wiwa and his compatriots. This is in line with our promise to right historical wrongs and foster a sense of inclusion and justice,” President Tinubu stated during a national address.

The Ogoni Nine, which included Saturday Dobee, Nordu Eawo, Daniel Gbooko, Paul Levera, Felix Nuate, Baribor Bera, Barinem Kiobel, and John Kpuine, were executed in November 1995 following a highly criticized trial over allegations of involvement in the murder of four Ogoni leaders.

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The executions sparked international condemnation and led to Nigeria’s suspension from the Commonwealth at the time.

In addition to the presidential pardon, Tinubu conferred posthumous national honours on the Ogoni Nine in recognition of their activism and sacrifice for environmental justice and human rights.

The president also bestowed national honours posthumously on notable pro-democracy figures including the late Kudirat Abiola, wife of presumed winner of the annulled 1993 presidential election Moshood Abiola; former Attorney General and human rights advocate Chief Bola Ige; and former Chief of Staff and Vice President during the Obasanjo military regime, General Shehu Musa Yar’Adua.

“These individuals gave their lives for democracy, justice, and the advancement of Nigeria. We owe them an eternal debt of gratitude,” Tinubu said.

The gesture is seen as a continuation of the president’s pledge, made in November 2024, to address historical injustices and promote unity across Nigeria’s diverse communities.

Democracy Day, celebrated annually on June 12, was officially recognized under Tinubu’s administration as a public holiday marking the restoration of civilian rule and honoring the sacrifices of those who fought for democratic governance.

The day also commemorates the landmark 1993 presidential election, widely regarded as the freest and fairest in Nigeria’s history.