United States lawmaker, Rep. Riley M. Moore (R–W.Va.), has reacted to the release of Sunday Jackson, a Nigerian Christian farmer who was granted a Christmas pardon after spending months on death row for killing an attacker in what was ruled as self-defence.
The pardon was approved by Adamawa State Governor, Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, bringing an end to Jackson’s long and controversial incarceration.
Background of the Case
Sunday Jackson’s case attracted international attention after reports revealed he had been sentenced to death for killing an assailant during a violent confrontation.
Supporters maintained that Jackson acted purely in self-defence while trying to protect himself during the attack, a position that drew sympathy from human rights advocates and religious freedom groups.
The case became a symbol of broader concerns over the treatment of Christians and self-defence claims in parts of Nigeria.
Longstanding Advocacy Efforts
Rep. Moore revealed that he had actively pushed for Jackson’s release for several months, describing the situation as a grave miscarriage of justice.
According to the U.S. lawmaker, he raised Jackson’s case during congressional hearings, media engagements, and closed-door meetings with Nigerian officials.
These efforts also extended to diplomatic engagements in Washington, D.C., as well as during a congressional delegation visit to Nigeria, where the matter was discussed directly with key stakeholders.
A Step Forward in U.S.–Nigeria Relations
Moore described the pardon as a welcome development that reflects a positive step in bilateral relations between the United States and Nigeria.
He noted that the decision signals a willingness by the Nigerian government, under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to engage constructively with international partners on issues relating to religious freedom and security.
The lawmaker stressed that while Jackson’s release is a victory, broader systemic reforms are still needed to prevent similar cases in the future.
Moore Reacts to Jackson’s Freedom
In an emotional statement, Moore expressed gratitude and relief over the outcome, emphasizing the human cost of Jackson’s prolonged detention.
He also urged Nigerian authorities at both federal and state levels to ensure Jackson’s safety following his release, given the sensitivity surrounding the case.
Moore’s Full Statement
“Sunday Jackson is free! After more than a decade in prison serving a death sentence for defending himself, Sunday Jackson has been pardoned.
“Sunday is a Christian farmer who, like countless other Christians in Nigeria, was brutally attacked by an Islamic radical.
“Sunday fought back in self-defense, killing his attacker.
“I have been advocating for Sunday’s release both in public and in private meetings, including during my recent Congressional Delegation visit to Nigeria.
“There is much more to do, but I continue to see positive steps that my concerns and the concerns of President Trump are being taken seriously by the Nigerian government.
“I want to thank President Tinubu for his administration’s willingness to engage in continued constructive discussions with the U.S. Government on establishing a strategic security framework between our two countries to tackle the multifaceted security challenges facing Nigeria.
“The Nigerian government at the Federal and State level must ensure Sunday’s safety during and following his release.
“Our Lord came to set the captives free, and now Sunday will be able to celebrate Christmas with his family. Thanks be to God!”