President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has signed the instruments of clemency and pardon, formally exercising his constitutional powers of prerogative of mercy to grant pardon and commutation of sentences to selected individuals convicted of various offences.
According to a statement from the Presidency, the action follows consultations with the Council of State and a review of public opinion regarding the initial list of recommended beneficiaries.
The President, acting under Section 175(1) and (2) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), directed a further review of the earlier approved list to ensure the exercise reflects justice, national security, and public interest.
As a result, individuals convicted of serious offences — including kidnapping, drug trafficking, human trafficking, fraud, and arms dealing — were removed from the list, while others previously considered for pardon had their sentences commuted instead.
“This action was necessary in view of the gravity of certain crimes, the need to respect the feelings of victims and society, and to sustain the morale of law enforcement agencies,” the statement read.
The decision also aligns with Nigeria’s bilateral obligations and the principle of justice as a three-way balance between the accused, the victim, and the state.
The approved list of eligible beneficiaries has been transmitted to the Nigerian Correctional Service for implementation in line with the duly signed instruments of release.
Secretariat Moved to Justice Ministry
To strengthen future clemency exercises, President Tinubu has 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.
The President also directed the Attorney-General of the Federation to issue new guidelines for exercising the prerogative of mercy, including mandatory consultation with relevant prosecuting agencies before any recommendation is made.
This measure, the President said, is intended to ensure that only deserving individuals who meet strict legal and procedural requirements benefit from future clemency actions.
President Tinubu expressed appreciation to stakeholders and members of the public for their constructive feedback and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to comprehensive judicial reforms and to strengthening the administration of justice in Nigeria.
