Human rights lawyer, Femi Falana, SAN, has called on the Federal Government to withdraw and review the list of 175 individuals recently granted presidential pardon by President Bola Tinubu, citing concerns over justice and national morality.
In a statement released Thursday, Falana acknowledged the President’s constitutional power under Section 175 to grant pardons. However, he criticised the inclusion of convicted politically exposed persons, drug offenders, armed robbers, terrorists, and individuals convicted of state offences such as murder and fraud.
He stressed that the Prerogative of Mercy Committee should instead recommend state-level pardons in line with Section 212 of the Constitution, which empowers state governors to pardon those convicted under state laws.
Meanwhile, the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation clarified that none of the pardoned inmates have been released. In a statement signed by AGF Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, the office said the clemency process remains in its final administrative stage, which includes thorough verification to ensure compliance with legal and procedural standards.
Fagbemi noted that the issuance of the final release instruments is pending and serves as an opportunity to review the list for any necessary corrections.
