President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the release of selected individuals through the exercise of his constitutional power of prerogative of mercy, completing the formal process of granting pardon and clemency to eligible convicts.
According to a statement from the Presidency, the decision followed consultations with the Council of State and a comprehensive review of the initial list of beneficiaries, in line with Section 175(1) and (2) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
As part of the review, individuals convicted of serious crimes such as kidnapping, drug trafficking, human trafficking, fraud, and arms dealing were removed from the list, while others had their sentences commuted.
The Presidency explained that the action was taken in recognition of the security implications of certain offences, the need to respect the rights of victims, and to maintain public confidence in the justice system. It also aimed to boost the morale of law enforcement agencies and uphold bilateral obligations.
“The concept of justice as a three-way traffic for the accused, the victim, and the state guided the review,” the statement noted.
The Nigerian Correctional Service has received the final list of beneficiaries for implementation in line with the signed instruments of release.
In a move to strengthen the process, 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.
He also directed the Attorney-General of the Federation to issue new guidelines governing future exercises of the prerogative of mercy, including mandatory consultation with relevant prosecuting agencies.
The President expressed appreciation for public feedback on the issue and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to judicial reforms and improving the administration of justice in Nigeria.
