The Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice has clarified that no inmate approved for clemency under the latest exercise has been released from custody, and that the process was subject to change.
The announcement followed the backlash that trailed the exercise of power of prerogative of mercy by President Bola Tinubu on certain categories of inmates.
In a statement personally signed by the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), on Thursday, the AGF Office said the process remained at the final administrative stage, which includes a standard review to ensure that all names and recommendations fully comply with established legal and procedural requirements before any instrument of release is issued.
It said it was “important to note that the last stage of the exercise, after approval by the Council of State, is the issuance of the instrument for the implementation of the decision concerning each beneficiary.”
The Office added that “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.”
Fagbemi noted that the verification process was part of the standard protocol and reflected the government’s commitment to transparency and due diligence.
“The Honourable Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice appreciates the public’s vigilance and constructive feedback, which continue to strengthen institutional integrity. Public engagement is always welcome, as it demonstrates that Nigerians care deeply about justice and good governance.
“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,” the statement added.
Meanwhile, human rights lawyer, Femi Falana, has asked the Federal Government to review and withdraw the list of those granted presidential pardon.
In a press statement released on Thursday evening, Falana said that while the President had the executive power to grant clemency to convicted persons irrespective of their offence, the recent prerogative of mercy was being judged as unjust use of powers.
Falana noted that those granted pardon include convicted politically exposed persons, drug addicts and barons, armed robbers, and terrorists as well as persons convicted for contravening state offences like culpable homicide, murder and obtaining by false pretences.
The Senior Advocate stated that the Prerogative of Mercy Committee should recommend to state governors to consider granting pardon to the persons who were convicted of state offences in the list of pardonees in accordance with Section 212 of the Nigerian Constitution.
“The federal government should withdraw and review the list of pardonees without any delay in the interest of justice and national morality. In particular, the Prerogative of Mercy Committee should recommend to State Governors to consider granting pardon to the persons who were convicted of state offences in the list of pardonees in accordance with Section 212 of the Nigerian Constitution,” The statement partly read.
