Yoruba Union Slams Tinubu Over Pardon For Convicted Criminals

The Yoruba Union, Ìgbìnmó Májékóbájé Ilé-Yorùbá, has condemned President Bola Tinubu’s decision to grant clemency to convicted criminals, calling it a dangerous act that undermines justice and weakens the nation’s moral foundation.

In a statement signed by the Union’s Convener, Olusola Badero, and Home Director, Princess Balogun, the group accused Tinubu of encouraging a political culture where individuals with criminal backgrounds could rise to power.

“The decision to pardon those convicted of crimes like murder, drug trafficking, and economic sabotage is a miscarriage of justice,” the group said. “By freeing criminals through political influence, the President is normalising impunity and eroding trust in the judiciary.”

The Union described the move as a betrayal of Yoruba values that stand for integrity, accountability, and respect for life. It questioned why such pardons were issued at a time when Nigeria is battling insecurity, poverty, and unemployment.

The group cited the pardon of Maryam Sanda, convicted for killing her husband, Bilyamin Bello, noting that the act disrespected victims’ families and the justice system. “How can the parents of Bilyamin find peace when their son’s killer is freed by the same state that convicted her?” the statement asked.

The Yoruba Union also referenced a 1993 U.S. court case linking Tinubu to narcotics trafficking, questioning his moral right to pardon others for similar crimes. It warned that the trend could turn Nigeria into a country ruled by criminals while honest citizens are silenced or punished.

To show double standards in Nigeria’s justice system, the group cited a 2013 case in Adamawa State, where a farmer named Jackson was sentenced to death for killing a Fulani herder in self-defence. “In a country where a poor farmer is condemned to die, while murderers walk free by presidential pardon, there is no justice—only selective mercy,” it said.

The Union warned that such actions erode Yoruba values of honesty and justice, creating a future where crime is seen as a path to success. “This is what happens when leaders act for self-interest instead of moral principle. Only divine intervention can save Nigeria if this culture of impunity continues,” it stated.

It called on religious leaders, civil society, and citizens to resist what it described as the growing normalisation of evil in governance, urging Nigerians—especially the Yoruba—to stand for truth, fairness, and justice.