Tinubu Government Clarifies Status Of Presidential Clemency For Sanda And Others

The Bola Tinubu administration has clarified that Maryam Sanda and other inmates listed for presidential clemency have not been released, saying the process remains under review.

The clarification followed widespread public outrage over reports that the government planned to free convicts jailed for serious offences, including murder, drug trafficking, and illegal mining.

In a statement on Thursday, Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), said the clemency process is still at its final administrative stage. He explained that every approval must undergo verification to ensure that only those who meet the legal criteria benefit from the President’s mercy.

Fagbemi, who chaired the committee responsible for the recommendations, noted that the review phase involves confirming names and ensuring all procedures comply with the law before any official release order can be issued. He said this approach was meant to promote fairness, accountability, and transparency in the exercise of the President’s constitutional powers.

According to him, after the Council of State’s approval, the final step requires issuing an official instrument authorising the release. This step, he said, allows the government to recheck the list for accuracy before sending it to the Controller-General of Corrections for implementation.

Fagbemi dismissed suggestions that the government was delaying the process, describing it instead as a lawful and careful verification exercise. He said the rule of law demands precision, not haste, and that due diligence was necessary to prevent errors.

He commended Nigerians for their public engagement and concern, noting that civic awareness strengthens justice and governance.

The clarification followed controversy over President Tinubu’s approval of clemency for 145 inmates nationwide, including some convicted of capital and drug-related offences. The beneficiaries were selected after a review by the Presidential Advisory Committee on the Prerogative of Mercy (PACPM) and endorsed by the Council of State.

However, the inclusion of certain high-profile convicts sparked criticism from rights groups and sections of the public, who questioned the criteria for the exercise.

Under Section 175 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), the President is empowered to grant pardons, reprieves, or commute sentences of individuals convicted under federal law, provided the process follows due legal and administrative procedure.