The Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice has clarified that none of the inmates approved for clemency under President Bola Tinubu’s recent exercise of the prerogative of mercy has been released.
This clarification follows widespread debate surrounding President Tinubu’s announcement of pardons for selected inmates and national figures.
According to a statement personally signed by Attorney-General and Minister of Justice Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN) on Thursday, the process is still in its final administrative phase, which involves a thorough review to ensure all names and recommendations meet the required legal and procedural standards.
“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 the implementation of the decision concerning each beneficiary,” Fagbemi stated.
“This stage affords an opportunity for a final look at the list for remedial purposes, if any, before the instrument is forwarded to the Controller-General of Corrections for necessary action.”
He explained that the verification process is standard protocol and underscores the government’s commitment to transparency and due process.
“The Honourable Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice appreciates the public’s vigilance and constructive feedback, which continue to strengthen institutional integrity. Public engagement is always welcome, as it demonstrates that Nigerians care deeply about justice and good governance.
“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. As soon as all legal and procedural checks are concluded, the public will be duly informed. The rule of law does not rush; it ensures fairness,” he added.
Presidential Pardon Details
Last week, President Tinubu exercised his constitutional power of mercy by granting clemency to notable figures, including Nigeria’s founding father Herbert Macaulay and former FCT minister under the Babangida regime, Major General Mamman Vatsa (retd).
He also pardoned four former convicts—Farouk Lawan, Anastasia Daniel Nwaobia, Hussaini Umar, and Ayinla Saadu Alanamu—citing their remorse and rehabilitation. Others pardoned include Nweke Francis Chibueze, serving a life sentence for drug-related offenses, and Dr. Nwogu Peters, who had served 12 of a 17-year fraud sentence.
Additionally, the late Ogoni Nine—Ken Saro-Wiwa, Barinem Kiobel, and others—were granted posthumous pardons, while The Ogoni Four were honoured for their contributions to justice and peace.
In total, President Tinubu granted clemency to 82 inmates, reduced the prison terms of 65 others, and commuted the death sentences of seven inmates to life imprisonment.
What You Should Know
The AGF’s clarification comes as the public awaits the release of inmates named in President Tinubu’s mercy list.
While approval has been granted, the legal instruments required for their freedom are still being finalized. The government insists that the process must follow due diligence to maintain credibility and fairness in the administration of justice.
