President Bola Tinubu has granted a presidential pardon to late activist Ken Saro Wiwa and eight other members of the Ogoni Nine.
He made this announcement on Thursday, June 12, 2025, while addressing the National Assembly during the Democracy Day celebration.
The pardon, which comes almost 30 years after their execution, was issued posthumously.
Tinubu used his constitutional powers under the Prerogative of Mercy to officially forgive the group, who were accused of murder in 1995 during the rule of General Sani Abacha and later executed.
Their deaths sparked outrage locally and internationally, with many believing the men were victims of political oppression.
During his address, Tinubu also awarded posthumous national honours to the nine men. Ken Saro Wiwa was given the Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON), while the other eight received the Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON).
The others are Saturday Dobee, Nordu Eawo, Daniel Gbooko, Paul Levera, Felix Nuate, Baribor Bera, Barinem Kiobel, and John Kpuine.
Tinubu described them as individuals who stood up for their people and pointed out that other names would be made public later after consultations with the National Council of State.
The execution of the Ogoni Nine in 1995 has remained one of Nigeria’s most controversial events.
Since then, many activists and communities in the Niger Delta have continued to call for justice and recognition of their struggle.
