“My Hope Is Renewed”: Farouk Lawan Hails Tinubu For Presidential Pardon, Says ‘God And History Shall Remember You’

Former House of Representatives member, Farouk Lawan, has expressed deep gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for granting him a presidential pardon, describing the gesture as a divine act that has “renewed his hope” and restored his faith in Nigeria’s justice system.

Lawan, who represented Bagwai/Shanono Federal Constituency of Kano State, was a prominent figure in Nigeria’s political landscape until he became entangled in the 2012 $3 million bribery scandal involving billionaire businessman Femi Otedola.

He was accused of demanding a bribe to remove Zenon Petroleum and Gas Limited, Otedola’s former company, from a list of firms implicated in the notorious fuel subsidy fraud. Nigerians will recall the viral video that showed the lawmaker allegedly stuffing wads of cash into his cap and traditional attire, an image that dominated national headlines for months.

Following a seven-count charge filed by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), Lawan was convicted in June 2021 by an FCT High Court in Apo and sentenced to seven years in prison. The Court of Appeal later reduced the sentence to five years, while the Supreme Court, in January 2024, upheld the conviction.

He eventually completed his jail term in October 2024, after which he maintained a low profile — until now.

‘My Hope Is Renewed’ — Lawan Speaks From the Heart

In an emotional statement released after news of his pardon broke, Lawan described Tinubu as a “fatherly, compassionate, and decisive political leader,” noting that the President’s act of mercy had given him a new lease on life.

> “To a fatherly, compassionate, and decisive political leader, His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR — God and history shall remember you,” Lawan declared.

“Mr President has cast a warm blanket over me, pulling me back from the harshness of yesterday’s cold. I lie prostrate, utterly humble in my heart and entire being, grateful for the mercy which Allah (SWT), through Mr President and my country, has shown me.”

Reflecting on his years of trial and incarceration, Lawan said the experience deepened his faith and resilience.

> “During the eclipse at noon of my life — a path designed by destiny — my family, friends, and associates stood by me through thick and thin. Their light became my singular, unfailing beacon. I remain eternally indebted to them,” he said.

The former lawmaker added that his faith in Nigeria never wavered, even during his lowest moments.

> “Throughout those moments of sober reflection, my faith in the greatness of our Fatherland never wavered, nor did my resolve to contribute to it ever weaken. A re-dedication to the ideals of Nigeria is upon me. My hope is renewed,” he added.

Path Cleared for a Political Comeback?

Political observers say the presidential pardon clears a major legal and reputational hurdle for Lawan, who was once one of the most influential legislators in Nigeria’s Fourth Republic.

Nicknamed “Mr Integrity” during his early days in the House, Lawan chaired the famous House Committee on Fuel Subsidy before his dramatic fall from grace.

With the pardon now restoring his civic rights, analysts believe Lawan could stage a comeback into politics or public service, as he hinted at “a re-dedication to the ideals of Nigeria.”

For now, Lawan remains in deep gratitude, saying his hope and faith have been rekindled — and his love for Nigeria renewed.