Relative of Bilyaminu Criticizes Maryam Sanda’s Father-in-Law over Pardon Remarks
A relative of the late Bilyaminu Bello has publicly criticised Ahmed Isa Bello, the father of Maryam Sanda’s husband, for defending President Bola Tinubu’s decision to grant Sanda a presidential pardon.
At a press briefing in Abuja, Ahmed Isa Bello stated that he had long advocated for clemency for Sanda, claiming he had petitioned the former Attorney-General, Abubakar Malami, as early as 2019 on humanitarian grounds. His comments came shortly after other members of the Bello family condemned Sanda’s release as a grave injustice to Bilyaminu’s memory.
In response, Usman (the relative) dismissed Bello’s claims, arguing that the man had little to no connection with Bilyaminu during his life. In a post on Facebook, Usman wrote that he had never met Bilyaminu’s biological father until the press conference, despite being close to the deceased. He expressed displeasure that Bello was now making assertions about the pardon, suggesting the timing and motivation were questionable.
Usman also acknowledged empathy toward a father defending his daughter publicly, but questioned Bello’s decision to get involved, especially when he was allegedly out of the picture. He asked why true reconciliation had not started with people who were part of Bilyaminu’s upbringing and life.
Background
Maryam Sanda was among 175 individuals granted presidential clemency by President Tinubu, following approval by the National Council of State.
Sanda had been convicted of murdering her husband, Bilyaminu Bello, in a high-profile case: in 2017, she was arrested for stabbing him, and in 2020 she was sentenced to death. Her conviction was upheld on appeal and by the Supreme Court.
The pardon has stirred sharp reactions. While the presidency cited good conduct, pleas from her family, and the welfare of her children in support of the clemency, members of the Bello family described it as a betrayal of justice.