The Federal Government has launched a comprehensive review of the recently proposed presidential pardon list following directives from the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN).
According to The Punch, the review will be carried out jointly by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), and the Nigeria Police Force. Sources indicated that the process could lead to the removal of more than half of the names initially recommended for clemency.
Earlier this month, the President approved clemency for 175 convicted persons. The announcement was made by the Attorney-General during the Council of State meeting held on October 9.
Among those listed for pardon were illegal miners, white-collar crime offenders, drug convicts, foreigners, as well as high-profile individuals including Maj. Gen. Mamman Vatsa, Prof. Magaji Garba, Ken Saro-Wiwa and the Ogoni Eight, and Maryam Sanda.
The announcement of the presidential pardon sparked widespread outrage across the country, with many Nigerians condemning the inclusion of certain high-profile convicts. Critics argued that granting clemency to individuals convicted of serious crimes undermined the fight against corruption and injustice, prompting calls for an immediate review of the list to ensure transparency and fairness in the process.
In reaction, the AGF last week clarified that no inmate has yet been released under the recent Presidential Prerogative of Mercy exercise.
Fagbemi explained that the process is still at the final administrative review stage. He said the review is necessary to ensure that all names and recommendations meet the required legal and procedural standards before the release instruments are signed and issued.
Reiterating the ministry’s ongoing reassessment, the Special Assistant on Communication and Publicity to the Attorney-General, Kamorudeen Ogundele, said, “Yes, the review is ongoing. The ministry is working with relevant agencies to ensure that the process meets all legal and ethical standards.”
