President Bola Tinubu is reportedly reviewing the list of individuals recently granted presidential pardon after public criticism over the inclusion of certain high-profile offenders. The review follows protests from citizens and security agencies who questioned the integrity of the clemency process.
The pardon, which was approved by the Council of State and presented by the Attorney-General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), was meant to decongest prisons and promote national reconciliation. However, it drew outrage after it was discovered that some individuals convicted of violent crimes and corruption were included.
Sources within the Presidency revealed that security and anti-graft agencies such as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission, and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency objected to the inclusion of certain names.
The agencies argued that some of the listed convicts were still considered security threats or had ongoing cases that disqualified them from benefiting from the exercise.
Among those listed for pardon were individuals convicted for murder, kidnapping, drug offences, and corruption. Names such as Maryam Sanda, who was convicted for the murder of her husband in 2017, and Kelvin Prosper Oniarah, known for a series of kidnappings across several states, sparked the most public backlash.
The Attorney-General, in a statement on Thursday, clarified that the Presidential Prerogative of Mercy had not been finalized and that no inmate had yet been released. He explained that the process was still undergoing administrative review to ensure compliance with due process and legal standards.
According to him, the final stage of the procedure involves verifying the names and recommendations before the official release order is issued. He noted that this step allows for the removal of any questionable names and ensures that only deserving individuals benefit from the President’s mercy.
Presidency sources said the review was necessary to maintain public confidence in the justice system and to prevent the release of individuals whose freedom could endanger national security. The final list is expected to exclude all controversial names that failed security clearance.
The Federal Government maintained that the process would continue in line with the law and that the public would be duly informed once the final decisions are made.