President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ordered a comprehensive review of the earlier presidential pardon, resulting in the exclusion of individuals convicted of serious crimes, including kidnapping, drug trafficking, human trafficking, fraud, and illegal possession or trade of firearms.
The President, at the State House in Abuja, signed official instruments of clemency and pardon in line with constitutional provisions for granting relief to selected inmates across the country.
According to a statement issued by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the review followed extensive consultations with the Council of State and consideration of public opinion.
Invoking his powers under Section 175 (1) and (2) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), President Tinubu directed a thorough reassessment of the previously approved list before final endorsement. The review led to the removal of convicts involved in grave offences, while some others had their sentences commuted or reduced instead of being fully pardoned.
The approved list of beneficiaries has been transmitted to the Nigerian Correctional Service for implementation in accordance with the official instruments of release.
In a further directive, the President 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.
He also mandated the Attorney-General of the Federation to develop new guidelines governing the exercise of the prerogative of mercy, including mandatory consultation with relevant prosecuting agencies, to ensure that only qualified persons benefit from future clemency exercises.
The decision comes two weeks after public outrage over reports that individuals convicted of heinous crimes, including Maryam Sanda, who was convicted for the murder of her husband, were allegedly listed among pardon beneficiaries.
Tinubu appreciated the constructive feedback from Nigerians and various stakeholders, reiterating his administration’s commitment to judicial reforms and the strengthening of Nigeria’s justice system.
He reaffirmed that the exercise of mercy must reflect justice, fairness, and national security considerations, ensuring that clemency does not become a shield for grave offenders.
