The Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice has clarified that none of the inmates recently approved for clemency under President Bola Tinubu’s exercise of the prerogative of mercy has been released from custody.
The clarification follows public debate surrounding the President’s decision to grant pardons and clemency to selected individuals, including notable figures and convicted inmates. In a statement personally signed by the AGF, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), on Thursday, the ministry explained that the process is still at its final administrative stage, which involves thorough legal and procedural checks before any release can occur.
Fagbemi emphasized that while the approval of clemency by the Council of State marks a significant step, the implementation requires the issuance of a formal instrument, which only happens after a final review. This final verification, he noted, ensures that all listed beneficiaries meet the required legal standards and that any potential oversight is corrected before the Controller-General of Corrections is authorized to act.
“This stage affords an opportunity for a final look at the list for remedial purposes, if any, before the instrument is forwarded to the Controller-General of Corrections for necessary action,” the statement read.
He further stressed that the ongoing review is a matter of due diligence and not a delay, noting that the rule of law must be followed carefully to uphold justice and ensure fairness.
“There is no delay in the process; it is simply following the law to the letter to ensure that only those duly qualified benefit from the President’s mercy. As soon as all legal and procedural checks are concluded, the public will be duly informed. The rule of law does not rush; it ensures fairness.”
Fagbemi also acknowledged the public’s vigilance and welcomed constructive engagement, saying it demonstrates citizens’ deep concern for justice and good governance.
Last week, President Tinubu granted a presidential pardon to several prominent Nigerians, including nationalist Herbert Macaulay and former FCT Minister under the Babangida regime, Major General Mamman Vatsa (retd). Also pardoned were four former convicts: former House of Representatives member Farouk Lawan; Anastasia Daniel Nwaobia; Barrister Hussaini Umar; and Ayinla Saadu Alanamu — all deemed to have shown sufficient remorse.
Others granted clemency include Nweke Francis Chibueze, serving a life sentence for cocaine-related offenses, and Dr. Nwogu Peters, who had completed 12 years of a 17-year sentence for fraud.
The President also posthumously pardoned the Ogoni Nine — including Ken Saro-Wiwa and Barinem Kiobel — and conferred national honours on the Ogoni Four: Chief Albert Badey, Chief Edward Kobani, Chief Samuel Orage, and Theophilus Orage.
In total, President Tinubu granted clemency to 82 inmates, commuted the death sentences of seven others to life imprisonment, and reduced the prison terms of 65 inmates.
