Actress Kemi Afolabi Slams Tinubu’s Pardon for Convicted Murderers, Urges Nigerians to Protect Their Lives

|By Oko-Echem Agnes

Nollywood actress Kemi Afolabi has joined the growing number of Nigerians criticizing President Bola Tinubu’s recent presidential pardon granted to convicted murderers, drug traffickers, and illegal miners.

The presidential pardon, announced by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Information, reportedly covers 175 convicted criminals — including 28 drug traffickers, 41 illegal miners, and 22 murderers. The controversial move has triggered nationwide outrage, with politicians, civil groups, and prominent Nigerians urging the government to reverse the decision.

Reacting via her Instagram story, Afolabi urged Nigerians to prioritize their safety in all relationships.
She wrote: “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.”

Her comment followed the backlash over the inclusion of Maryam Sanda, convicted in 2020 for the murder of her husband Bilyaminu Ahmed in 2017, among those reportedly pardoned. Ahmed’s family had publicly condemned the government’s decision to free Sanda, calling it a betrayal of justice.

The development continues to dominate public discourse, as critics question the moral and legal implications of releasing individuals convicted of heinous crimes.