Tinubu signs clemency instruments, moves Prerogative of Mercy Secretariat to Justice Ministry

Abdullateef Fowewe

President Bola Tinubu has utilised his constitutional power to grant pardon and clemency to certain convicted individuals, while excluding those convicted of serious crimes like kidnapping, drug offenses, and fraud.

According to a statement on Wednesday by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President (Information & Strategy), the motion occurred following consultations with the Council of State and public opinion, the President “directed a further review of the initially approved list,” leading to the removal of persons convicted of grave offenses and the commutation of sentences for some previously pardoned individuals.

This careful review was motivated by “the seriousness and security implications of some of the offences,” the need to consider victims’ and society’s feelings, and to “boost the morale of law enforcement agencies.”

To enhance transparency and effectiveness, Tinubu according to the press release has relocated the Secretariat of the Presidential Advisory Committee on Prerogative of Mercy from the Federal Ministry of Special Duties to the Federal Ministry of Justice.

He also instructed the Attorney-General to “issue appropriate Guidelines for the Exercise of the Power of Prerogative of Mercy,” ensuring future pardons abide by strict legal and procedural requirements.

The President expressed appreciation for public and stakeholder feedback and reiterated his administration’s “broader commitment to judicial reforms and improving the administration of justice in Nigeria.”