The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), has clarified that no inmate has yet been released under the recent Presidential Prerogative of Mercy exercise.
In a statement issued on Thursday, 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.
According to him, although the Council of State has approved the list of beneficiaries, the final step involves the issuance of the official instrument of release. This stage allows for a last verification of the list for any necessary corrections before the documents are sent to the Controller-General of Corrections for implementation.
Fagbemi emphasized that the verification process is a standard part of government protocol designed to uphold transparency and due diligence.
“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 said.
The Minister expressed appreciation for public interest and feedback, noting that citizens’ vigilance helps strengthen the justice system and promote good governance.
He assured that once all legal and procedural checks are completed, the public will be informed accordingly.
