In response to recent public concerns regarding President Bola Tinubu’s exercise of the prerogative of mercy for select prisoners, the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice has issued a clarification. It emphasized that none of the inmates approved for clemency have yet been released, as the process is still undergoing necessary procedural adjustments.
The office explained that the clemency exercise is currently in its final administrative phase. This stage involves a thorough review to confirm that all recommended names meet the legal and procedural standards before any official release documents are issued.
In a statement personally endorsed by the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), on Thursday evening, it was highlighted that “the concluding step, following the Council of State’s approval, is the issuance of the official instrument that enacts the decision for each beneficiary.” He further clarified, “This phase allows for a final examination of the list to address any necessary corrections before the instrument is sent to the Controller-General of Corrections for execution.”
Prince Fagbemi underscored that this verification is a routine part of the process, reflecting the government’s dedication to transparency and meticulousness.
He also expressed gratitude for the public’s attentiveness and constructive input, stating, “The Honourable Attorney-General values the public’s engagement, which plays a vital role in reinforcing institutional integrity. Such involvement shows Nigerians’ strong commitment to justice and effective governance.”
The statement reassured that “there is no undue delay; the process strictly adheres to legal requirements to ensure that only those legitimately eligible benefit from the President’s clemency. Once all legal and procedural validations are complete, the public will be promptly informed. The rule of law prioritizes fairness over haste.”
According to LEADERSHIP, the Council of State had, the Thursday before last, approved a list of offenders-both deceased and living-who had either completed or were still serving prison sentences, including individuals on death row. This list, submitted by President Bola Tinubu, identified beneficiaries of the presidential prerogative of mercy.
Nonetheless, the announcement sparked significant criticism, particularly concerning pardons granted to individuals convicted of capital and drug-related offenses. A notable case that drew widespread attention was that of Maryam Sanda, a death row inmate sentenced for the murder of her husband, who was included among the beneficiaries.
