By Attah Ede
Former House of Representatives member, Farouk Lawan, has thanked President Ahmed Bola Tinubu for granting him state pardon over his involvement in a bribery and corruption while in the National Assembly.
Lawan was convicted in 2021 for accepting a $500,000 bribe from businessman Femi Otedola, Chairman of Zenon Petroleum and Gas Ltd.
But on Thursday, October 9, Tinubu exercised the prerogative of mercy and pardoned the former lawmaker and 173 others.
Lawan in a deeply emotional letter expressed gratitude to Tinubu, stating that the president has demonstrated that he is a true father, a compassionate, and decisive political leader.
He added that throughout those moments of sober reflection, his faith in the greatness of his Fatherland never wavered, nor did his resolve to contribute to it ever weaken.
He said that re-dedication to the ideals of Nigeria is upon him, while his hope is renewed.
He noted that the President has cast a warm blanket over him, and pulled him back from the harshness of yesterday’s cold.
“A day like this is not for a long treatise. I lie, prostrate utterly humble in my heart and entire being, grateful for the mercy which Allah (SWT), through Mr. President and my country have shown me.
“During the eclipse at noon of my life, a path designed by destiny, a past with which I am fully reconciled, my family, friends and associates stood by me through thick and thin, their light became my singular unfailing beacon. I remain eternally indebted to you. May Allah (SWT) recompense you.
“My family and I, along with my friends and associates in Kano State and across Nigeria, are indescribably grateful to Mr. President for drafting me back into active citizenship with its unavoidable service imperative.
“May God bless us all, and may God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria”, Lawan stated.
