KEY POINTS

• Farouk Lawan says Tinubu’s pardon gave him hope.
• He plans to rebuild his political relevance nationwide.
• Lawan further calls the experience a divine test of loyalty.

Former lawmaker Farouk Lawan says President Bola Tinubu’s decision to pardon him offers “a new chapter in life.”

Lawan, convicted in 2021 on bribery charges linked to Nigeria’s fuel subsidy scandal, was among 175 beneficiaries of Tinubu’s October 9 clemency list, endorsed by the Council of State.

In an interview in Kaduna, the ex-representative for Bagwai/Shanono, Kano State, said the presidential pardon taught him humility and gratitude. “When Allah grants a chance for pardon, you must be thankful,” he said, praising Tinubu for what he called a “commendable act of justice.”

Reflections from prison and lessons on destiny

Reflecting on his prison time, Lawan said he found peace by surrendering his fate to God.
“I knew that wherever I was going, I’d meet people, and if they could survive, so could I,” he said. Released in 2024, he said the period reshaped his political convictions and relationships.

Furthermore, after his release, Lawan distanced himself from the Kwankwasiyya movement and shifted focus to parties with broader national reach.
He revealed that some old allies, including a senior figure in Kwankwasiyya, failed to reach out to him, even after his release. “It’s been a year now, and not even a phone call,” he further said.

Despite the rift, Lawan maintained respect for Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, Kwankwasiyya’s leader, emphasizing his commitment to “a more inclusive political path.”