• AGF Fagbemi says no inmate granted presidential pardon has been released yet.
• Review ongoing to ensure legal compliance and transparency.
• Public concerns over alleged inclusion of high-profile convicts like Maryam Sanda.
The Federal Government has clarified that no inmate approved under the latest presidential pardon exercise has been released, stating that the process remains subject to change pending a final legal and administrative review.
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 ongoing review is part of due diligence to ensure that all beneficiaries meet the necessary legal and procedural standards before final release orders are issued.
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“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. This stage affords a final opportunity to review the list for remedial purposes before forwarding it to the Controller-General of Corrections,” the statement read.
Fagbemi emphasised that the verification process reflects the government’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and the rule of law, insisting that the process was not delayed but was being handled “strictly by the law.”
“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,” he added.
Public Outrage Over List of Beneficiaries
The clarification comes after widespread public backlash over the inclusion of certain high-profile convicts, including Maryam Sanda, who was sentenced to death for killing her husband.
Critics accused the Presidency of extending clemency to capital and drug offenders, prompting outrage across social and political circles.
It will be recalled that the Council of State had, penultimate Thursday, ratified a list of offenders presented by President Bola Tinubu as beneficiaries of the Presidential Power of Prerogative of Mercy, covering both living and deceased inmates.
The Office of the AGF assured Nigerians that only duly verified and legally eligible candidates will benefit from the President’s clemency once all checks are completed.
