Tinubu Reviews Clemency List, Drops Convicts Of Serious Crimes, Moves Mercy Committee To Justice Ministry
PRESIDENT Bola Ahmed Tinubu has formally signed instruments of clemency and pardon, exercising his constitutional power of prerogative of mercy to grant relief to certain convicted individuals — while removing others previously considered for release.
The move follows widespread public backlash over the initial list of pardoned individuals, with the President responding by ordering a full review in line with Section 175(1) & (2) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
According to a statement issued by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Tinubu deleted names of convicts involved in kidnapping, drug-related offences, human trafficking, fraud, and illegal arms possession from the initial pardon list.
“This action became necessary in view of the seriousness and security implications of some of the offences, the need to be sensitive to the feelings of victims, and the need to boost the morale of law enforcement agencies,” the statement said.
The President’s decision, which came after consultations with the Council of State and consideration of public opinion, reflects what Onanuga described as “justice as a three-way traffic — for the accused, the victim, and the society.”
Public Outcry and Presidential Response
The review follows intense debate on social media, where many Nigerians criticized the inclusion of individuals convicted for violent and economic crimes.
Observers say the reversal underscores the power of citizen advocacy and public accountability in governance.
“Social media is powerful. And when the President reverses a pardon that should not have happened, know that your voice carries weight,” Onanuga stated, highlighting the administration’s responsiveness to public sentiment.
Justice Ministry Takes Over Clemency Secretariat
In a related development, President Tinubu approved 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 Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice to issue new guidelines for future exercises of presidential clemency.
The guidelines will make consultation with relevant prosecuting agencies compulsory, ensuring that only qualified individuals benefit from such mercy powers.
“This will ensure that only persons who fully meet the stipulated legal and procedural requirements will henceforth benefit from the issuance of instruments of release,” the statement added.
Commitment to Justice Reform
President Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to judicial reform and a fairer justice system, pledging that future acts of clemency will align with the nation’s security priorities and moral expectations.
The approved list of eligible beneficiaries has been forwarded to the Nigerian Correctional Service for immediate implementation in accordance with the signed instruments of release.
