United States Congressman Riley Moore has reacted to the release of Christian farmer, Sunday Jackson, who was previously sentenced to death by an Adamawa State High Court.
Jackson had been condemned to death after killing a radical herder in what was described as an act of self-defence following an attack on his home.
Nigerian Newssphere reports that Moore had consistently called for Jackson’s release over several months and raised the case during congressional hearings on the security situation in Nigeria.
Last Sunday, Adamawa State Governor, Ahmadu Fintiri, announced that Jackson was granted a state pardon alongside others, as part of activities marking the Christmas and New Year celebrations.
Reacting to the development, Moore confirmed the news, stating that “Sunday Jackson has been pardoned,” but stressed that the Nigerian government must still do more.
According to the lawmaker, he has observed positive steps by the Nigerian government since his visit to the country, noting that “my concerns and the concerns of President Trump are being taken seriously.”
Moore also commended the administration of President Bola Tinubu for its willingness to engage with the United States government in addressing Nigeria’s security challenges.
However, he warned that the safety of the pardoned farmer must be guaranteed, urging governments at all levels to ensure that nothing happens to Jackson following his release.
