Tinubu Urged to Grant Posthumous Pardon to Col. Akaahan

A senior lawyer, Professor Sabastine Hon, SAN, has formally requested that President Bola Tinubu grant a full posthumous pardon to late Colonel Joseph Akaahan, Nigeria’s former Chief of Army Staff. The appeal, made in a letter dated October 17, 2025, highlights the officer’s distinguished service and seeks to correct a historical injustice.

Professor Hon, writing as a concerned citizen from Benue State, detailed the late Colonel’s impressive military career. Colonel Joseph Akaahan served as Nigeria’s second Chief of Army Staff. He was appointed in May 1967, just before the civil war, and was noted for his instrumental role in supporting Col. Benjamin Adekunle’s “Operation Sea-borne” during the conflict.

**A Tragic End and a Lasting Stain**

The lawyer recounted the circumstances leading to Akaahan’s dismissal. The officer’s helicopter crashed on August 6, 1967, shortly after takeoff from Gboko, killing him instantly. The Army authorities deemed his trip to his hometown unauthorized. Consequently, he was posthumously arraigned and summarily dismissed from service. This dismissal has never been officially reversed, despite his contributions.

Hon expressed regret that this mark remains on the record of the late Colonel Joseph Akaahan. He noted the irony that the Nigerian Army continues to honor his memory by maintaining the Joe Akaahan Military Cantonment in Makurdi. A military hospital at this facility was unveiled as recently as 2024 by a former Army Chief.

As detailed in the complete version, there are several key factors to consider.

**An Appeal for Presidential Clemency**

The professor urged President Tinubu to invoke his constitutional powers under Section 175 of the 1999 Constitution. He asked that the President extend clemency to the late army officer, similar to the pardon granted to 175 other Nigerians in October 2025. Hon emphasized that the Attorney-General had stated the pardon list was still under review, making the appeal timely.

He argued that granting a full posthumous pardon for Colonel Joseph Akaahan would bring immense joy to his family and Benue State. It would also serve as a final recognition of his service. Colonel Akaahan was a Sandhurst-trained officer who served in UN peacekeeping operations in Congo before his tragic death at the age of 30. This move would formally restore the honor of a soldier who gave his life for the nation.