Nigeria Pardons Activist Ken Saro-Wiwa 30 Years After Execution

Background

Activist Ken Saro-Wiwa was executed 30 years ago, on November 10, 1995, amidst international outrage over his campaigning against environmental pollution in Nigeria. His efforts to spotlight the harmful impact of the petroleum industry in the Niger Delta had led to his repeated arrest and detention, and ultimately, a controversial conviction that resulted in his execution.

Announcement

This morning, Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari announced that pardon has been granted to Saro-Wiwa, paving the way for a possible formal exoneration. The presidential proclamation reads, "In the name of unity, justice, and peace, and after due process and careful consideration, the Federal Executive Council has granted a full and unconditional pardon to Ken Saro-Wiwa, who has been considered as the leader of the Nigerian environmental rights movement."

International Reactions

The news has elicited varied responses from around the world. Human rights groups and environmental organizations have welcomed the move, while others have criticized what they perceive as a halfhearted attempt at justice.