On Nigeria’s Democracy Day, President Bola Tinubu gave a full presidential pardon to Ken Saro-Wiwa and eight other Ogoni activists. These men, known as the Ogoni Nine, were environmental and human rights campaigners.
The president made the announcement on Thursday, during the Democracy Day celebration, to show respect for those who fought for justice in Nigeria.
As part of the gesture, Tinubu also gave national honors to the Ogoni Nine for their contributions to the country’s history and struggle for freedom.
In addition to this, he awarded posthumous national honors to other well-known figures. These include Kudirat Abiola, Bola Ige, and former President Shehu Musa Yar’Adua—people remembered for their roles in Nigeria’s fight for democracy and justice.
Back in November 2024, President Tinubu promised to work on healing Nigeria from past hurts. This pardon and recognition seem to be part of that plan.
Ken Saro-Wiwa and the other activists were killed by the military government in 1995. At the time, they were accused of being involved in a murder case during the rule of former leader Sani Abacha.
The others who were pardoned along with Saro-Wiwa include Saturday Dobee, Nordu Eawo, Daniel Gbooko, Paul Levera, Felix Nuate, Baribor Bera, Barinem Kiobel, and John Kpuine.
Last year, Tinubu’s government made June 12 an official Democracy Day holiday. This day is now used to honor Nigeria’s journey toward democratic leadership.
