Tinubu’s Pardons Will Encourage Criminality, Undermine Justice — Effiong
By TINA TOLUTOPE
HUMAN rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong has criticised President Bola Tinubu’s recent pardon of 175 convicts, warning that it could embolden criminals and weaken Nigeria’s justice system.
Effiong acknowledged that clemency for figures like Gen. Mamman Vatsa and the Ogoni Nine was understandable but questioned pardons for convicts of murder, drug trafficking, and fraud, including Maryam Sanda, convicted for killing her husband.
He argued that while the President has constitutional powers under Section 175, the discretion should not “send a message that crime pays,” adding that the move undermines victims and law enforcement efforts.
