By Musemil Abubakar
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ratified a reviewed list of convicts approved for state pardon, excluding those found guilty of serious crimes such as kidnapping, drug trafficking, human trafficking, fraud, and arms-related offences.
According to a statement issued on Wednesday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President signed the instruments of release after wide consultations with the Council of State and other stakeholders. The review, the statement noted, was conducted in line with Section 175(1) and (2) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
“The President acted in response to public concerns and the need to ensure that justice serves not just the accused, but also the victims and the state,” the statement read.
Some convicts earlier shortlisted for full pardon were instead granted commutation of sentences, reflecting a balance between compassion and national security considerations.
The Presidency explained that the decision to exclude those involved in grave offences was influenced by the security implications of their crimes, sensitivity to victims and communities, and the morale of law enforcement agencies.
It added that the approved list has been forwarded to the Nigerian Correctional Service for immediate implementation.
In a related move, President Tinubu ordered the relocation of the Secretariat of the Presidential Advisory Committee on Prerogative of Mercy from the Ministry of Special Duties to the Federal Ministry of Justice. He also directed the Attorney-General of the Federation to issue new operational guidelines for future clemency exercises, including mandatory consultation with prosecuting agencies to uphold due process.
Onanuga noted that the President appreciated the constructive feedback from Nigerians and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to justice sector reforms and transparent governance.
