Father of late Bilyaminu Bello accepts Maryam Sanda clemency, calling it an act of mercy and emphasising forgiveness over vengeance

Father of the late Bilyaminu Bello, Alhaji Ahmed Bello Isa, has publicly accepted the presidential clemency granted to his daughter-in-law, Maryam Sanda, by President Bola Tinubu. Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Tuesday, Bello expressed that he had long forgiven her for the death of his son.

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He described the pardon as “the will of God” and welcomed the release of Maryam Sanda as an act of mercy, allowing her to care for her two children.

“I am happy that the father of the nation has released Maryam so that she can look after her children. We as Muslims accept whatever comes from Almighty Allah. I have forgiven her and bear no grudges against the Federal Government or her family. Vengeance cannot bring back my son, but forgiveness can bring peace,” he said.

Maryam Sanda, daughter of a former Aso Savings Executive, was convicted and sentenced to death by hanging in January 2020 for the murder of her husband, Bilyaminu Bello, during a domestic dispute in Abuja in November 2017.

The case sparked nationwide debate about domestic violence and justice.

Alhaji Bello revealed that his appeal for mercy began as far back as 2019, even before the court’s sentencing.

He wrote several letters to authorities, including the then Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, and the FCT Police Commissioner, pleading for leniency.

While some relatives criticised the pardon as a grave injustice, Bello made clear that their views did not represent his.

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“That is their personal opinion. I am the father of the deceased, and I have chosen forgiveness. We may not all see things the same way, but I believe this is the right path, for peace, for the children, and for Allah’s mercy,” he said.