Faith
Nigerian Christian Farmer Pardoned, Released After Outcry
Faith Facts
- Sunday Jackson, a Christian farmer, received a full pardon from Adamawa state Governor Fintiri after years on death row.
- Jackson had been sentenced to death for fatally defending himself during an attack on his farm, a conviction upheld by Nigeria’s Supreme Court in March.
- American advocates, including Rep. Riley M. Moore and Pastor William Devlin, played key roles in bringing international attention and faith-based advocacy to his case.
Sunday Jackson, a faithful Christian and Nigerian farmer, has been freed after Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri granted a full pardon in recognition of Christmas and New Year celebrations. His release came after years of persistent advocacy from Christian leaders and American representatives who stood for religious liberty and justice.
Jackson was originally sentenced to death for defending himself against a violent attack in 2015, an event that exposed the dangers faced by Christians in Nigeria. When the Supreme Court upheld his sentence in March, the faith community rose up in prayer and action, demanding justice rooted in Biblical values.
Pastor William Devlin and attorney Emmanuel Ogebe faithfully advocated on Jackson’s behalf, trusting God for intervention and embodying Christian love in action.
Devlin proclaimed on social media:
“Sunday Jackson our Christian brother in Nigeria has been pardoned… we Give God all glory/credit!”
Jackson’s case reminds us of the vital need to protect religious freedom and support persecuted Christians worldwide. May we continue to stand for righteousness and defend the innocent, just as Christ calls us to do.