President Bola Tinubu has formally exercised his constitutional prerogative of mercy, granting pardons and clemency to selected individuals convicted of various offenses, after a careful review process.
Following consultations with the Council of State and public feedback, the President directed a further examination of the initial list under his discretionary powers in Section 175(1) & (2) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
The review resulted in the removal of individuals convicted of serious crimes such as kidnapping, drug trafficking, human trafficking, fraud, and unlawful possession or dealing in firearms.
Some other offenders on the initial list had their sentences commuted rather than receiving full pardons.
The Presidency emphasized that the decisions were guided by the severity of the crimes, potential security risks, the interests of victims, the need to maintain law enforcement morale, and Nigeria’s international obligations.
The process reflected the principle that justice should serve not only the accused but also the victims and the state.
The approved list of beneficiaries has been forwarded to the Nigerian Correctional Service for implementation in line with the executed release instruments.
In addition, President Tinubu ordered the relocation of the Secretariat of the Presidential Advisory Committee on Prerogative of Mercy from the Federal Ministry of Special Duties to the Federal Ministry of Justice, as part of reforms to strengthen due process.
He also instructed the Attorney-General of the Federation to issue new guidelines for future exercises of presidential clemency, including mandatory consultations with relevant prosecuting agencies, ensuring that only those who fully meet legal and procedural requirements benefit.
The President commended the constructive engagement of stakeholders and the public and reiterated his administration’s commitment to judicial reforms and improving the administration of justice in Nigeria.
The initial release of the clemency list in early October had drawn widespread criticism. Political figures, human rights organizations, and concerned citizens condemned the inclusion of individuals convicted of serious crimes.
Among the critics were former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA), who warned that hasty pardons could undermine the justice system.
Out of 175 beneficiaries, according to Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Information, 41 were illegal miners, 28 drug traffickers, and 22 murderers.
The list also included foreigners, coup plotters, corrupt politicians, capital offenders such as Maryam Sanda, and posthumous pardons for figures like Major General Mamman Vatsa, Major Akubo, Professor Magaji Garba, late Ken Saro-Wiwa, and other members of the Ogoni Eight.
