By Olatunbosun Obafemi
The Federal Government has clarified that no inmate granted clemency under President Bola Tinubu’s recent exercise of the prerogative of mercy has been released from custody.
The Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice made the clarification on Thursday amid public debate following President Tinubu’s approval of pardons and sentence reductions for several inmates across the country.
In a statement personally signed by the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), the ministry explained that the process is still at its final administrative stage. He said a mandatory legal review is ongoing to ensure all beneficiaries meet the constitutional and procedural conditions before their official release.
“It is important to note that the last stage of the exercise, after approval by the Council of State, is the issuance of the instrument for implementation of the decision concerning each beneficiary,” Fagbemi said. “This stage provides an opportunity for a final review, if necessary, before forwarding the list to the Controller-General of Corrections for action.”
He added that the verification process reflects the government’s commitment to due process and transparency, assuring that there is no delay in the procedure.
“The rule of law does not rush; it ensures fairness,” the statement emphasized. “The Attorney-General appreciates the public’s vigilance and feedback, which continue to strengthen institutional integrity and good governance.”
Last week, President Tinubu approved a series of pardons and sentence commutations, including posthumous clemency for Nigerian nationalist Herbert Macaulay and former FCT Minister, Major General Mamman Vatsa (retd).
Also pardoned were former lawmaker Farouk Lawan, Anastasia Daniel Nwaobia, Hussaini Umar, Ayinla Saadu Alanamu, Nweke Francis Chibueze, and Dr. Nwogu Peters. The President further granted posthumous pardons to the Ogoni Nine, including Ken Saro-Wiwa, and conferred national honours on four Ogoni leaders.
In total, 82 inmates were granted clemency, 65 had their sentences reduced, and seven death sentences were commuted to life imprisonment.
