By PRESIDENT Bola Ahmed Tinubu has signed the Instrument of Clemency and Pardon, granting mercy to selected individuals previously convicted of various offences.
A statement by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Mr Bayo Onanuga, said the action followed consultations with the Council of State and consideration of public opinion.
President Tinubu, exercising his powers under Section 175 (1) and (2) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), ordered a review of the earlier approved list of beneficiaries.
Following the review, persons convicted of serious crimes such as kidnapping, drug trafficking, human trafficking, fraud, and unlawful possession or dealing in firearms were deleted from the list. Others had their sentences commuted.
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“The decision was informed by the seriousness and security implications of certain offences, the need to respect victims and public sentiment, to strengthen the morale of law enforcement agencies, and to honour Nigeria’s bilateral obligations,” the statement read.
It added that the review was guided by the concept of justice as a “three-way traffic” between the accused, the victim, and society.
The updated list of eligible beneficiaries has been forwarded to the Nigerian Correctional Service for implementation.
President Tinubu also directed the immediate relocation of 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 further instructed the Attorney-General of the Federation to issue new guidelines for future exercises, including mandatory consultation with relevant prosecuting agencies, to ensure only qualified persons benefit.
The President appreciated the constructive feedback from stakeholders and the public, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to judicial reforms and a more efficient justice system.
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