Olusegun Ariyo
Lawyers under the aegis of The Blue Pen have appealed to President Bola Tinubu to grant presidential clemency to detained Deputy Commissioner of Police, DCP, Abba Kyari.
The lawyers, while making a case for a presidential pardon for Kyari, cited his record of service in the fight against violent crimes and terrorism in Nigeria.
The request for a presidential pardon was made in an open letter dated June 25, 2025, obtained by newsmen on Tuesday. The letter, signed by the group’s lead, Adamu Kabiru Adamu Esq, was copied to the Attorney General of the Federation, AGF, and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN.
“With utmost respect and deep sense of humility, we write as a legal Practitioners and advocates for national justice and reconciliation, to respectfully appeal to your Excellency on behalf of the concerned citizens for consideration of clemency in the case of Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Abba Kyari.
“DCP Abba Kyari has, over the years, distinguished himself in the service of our great nation. Is a distinguished officer who, before his current legal predicament, served Nigeria with rare courage, loyalty, distinction, dedication, and numerous contributions in combating violent crimes, terrorism, and other security challenges that threatened the peace and unity of Nigeria.
“His efforts, particularly in leading operations that dismantled criminal networks, have saved countless lives and restored confidence in the Nigerian Police Force at critical times,” parts of the letter read.
The lawyers argued that Kyari’s “operations led to the successful dismantling of numerous criminal syndicates and contributed immensely to improving national security, particularly at a time when insecurity was ravaging various parts of the country”.
“His service earned him several national and international commendations.
“While we remain firm in upholding the rule of law, we also strongly believe that extending clemency at this point will serve the broader national interest, considering his past sacrifices, experience, and the current insecurity challenges facing the country.
“Your magnanimity in this regard will not only demonstrate the compassionate spirit of your administration but will also reassure Nigerians that justice can be tempered with mercy, particularly when the individual in question has made tremendous sacrifices in the interest of national security. And also, where national unity and security are at stake.
“Clemency, as enshrined in the Constitution, is not a denial of justice but rather an act of mercy, reconciliation, and national healing. In times when Nigeria is confronted with rising insecurity and public distrust, such an act of compassion can help foster peace, unity, and confidence in government.
“In view of the above, we humbly request Your Excellency to consider DCP Abba Kyari for a presidential clemency on compassionate and patriotic grounds.
“Such a gesture would not only align with Your Excellency’s commitment to national healing, but also send a strong signal that Nigeria values and honours those who serve it diligently even in their moments of trial.
“We trust in your leadership, wisdom, and fatherly sense of justice to give this request the urgent and humane attention it deserves,” the letter added.
Many Nigerians have been calling for Kyari’s release amid his ongoing trial.
As the level of insecurity in the country continues to rise, many Nigerians are saying Kyari should be granted clemency and reinstated into the security system to continue the fight against kidnapping and terrorism.
“The President would be scoring a political goal ahead of 2027 among Nigerians who see Abba Kyari as a hero in the fight against insecurity, which has gripped the country,” the lawyers added.
