Kemi Afolabi Speaks On Maryam Sanda’s Pardon, Urges To Prioritize Safety Over Relationships

Nollywood actress Kemi Afolabi has condemned the presidential pardon granted to Maryam Sanda, urging women to value their lives above any relationship.

Afolabi wrote on Instagram:

“Do not allow anyone to take your life. Guard it with all your being — be it in marriage, friendship, courtship or any kind of relationship.”

Her post followed President Bola Tinubu’s clemency for Maryam Sanda, who was convicted in 2020 for killing her husband, Bilyaminu Bello, during a domestic fight.

The decision has stirred outrage, with many Nigerians accusing the government of favouring the powerful and undermining justice for victims of abuse.

Critics also recalled the 2019 case of Yewande Oyediran, an Ibadan-based lawyer pardoned by former Oyo State governor Abiola Ajimobi after she was convicted of killing her husband.

Afolabi’s statement has gone viral, earning praise for highlighting the culture of silence around domestic violence and calling for stronger protection for victims.