Wives and sisters of soldiers serving under the 7 Division of the Nigerian Army, Maiduguri, have appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to grant a presidential pardon to their detained husbands and brothers.
The women, led by Mrs. Rose Emmanuel David, told journalists in Maiduguri on Wednesday, October 1, that about 30 soldiers had been in custody at the Division’s garrison for offences they described as “minor,” with some held for several months and others for more than a year.
Mrs. David said: “It is important to remember that amnesty has been extended to repentant insurgents and bandits who once raised arms against the State.
“These soldiers are Nigerians too — men who once risked their lives to defend our people and preserve our nation.”
The women argued that granting a pardon would not only restore dignity to their families but also strengthen the trust between the military and the country it serves.
“They deserve the same mercy, so they can once again fight for peace, unity, and security.
This is not a call for sympathy, but for justice with compassion,” the women said.
They appealed to President Tinubu, the National Assembly, Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum, and Nigerians of goodwill to support their plea.
“We appeal for mercy. We appeal for a presidential pardon.
“We appeal for the support of all Nigerians. Our husbands and brothers have reflected deeply and now seek a second chance to serve their country with renewed loyalty,” the group declared.