President Bola Tinubu
By DAVID IORJA, Abuja-
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has formally signed the instruments of release, completing the constitutional process of granting clemency and pardon to selected individuals previously convicted for various offences.
This move follows consultations with the Council of State and input from the public, leading to a review of the earlier approved list in line with the President’s discretionary powers under Section 175(1) & (2) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
As a result of this review, individuals convicted for serious offences—including kidnapping, drug trafficking, human trafficking, fraud, and illegal possession or dealing in firearms—were removed from the clemency list.
Some others had their sentences commuted rather than fully pardoned, according to a statement issued on Wednesday by the presidential spokesman, Bayo Onanuga.
According to the Presidency, the decision was taken in light of the grave security implications of such crimes, the need to remain sensitive to victims and the wider society, and the importance of maintaining the morale of law enforcement agencies. The statement also noted that the review was guided by the principle that justice must serve “the Accused, the Victim, and the State.”
The approved list of beneficiaries has since been forwarded to the Nigerian Correctional Service for execution, in line with the duly signed instruments of release.
In a further directive, President Tinubu ordered the relocation of the Secretariat of the Presidential Advisory Committee on the Prerogative of Mercy from the Federal Ministry of Special Duties to the Federal Ministry of Justice, ensuring better oversight and alignment with legal procedures.
Additionally, the President instructed the Attorney-General of the Federation to develop comprehensive guidelines for the exercise of the prerogative of mercy. These guidelines will mandate consultations with relevant prosecuting agencies before any future recommendations or releases.
The President expressed appreciation to the public and stakeholders for their constructive feedback, reaffirming his administration’s dedication to judicial reforms and the improvement of justice delivery in Nigeria.
