President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has drastically cut down the number of convicts approved for presidential pardon, reducing the list from 175 to just 34. The move follows widespread criticism over the inclusion of individuals convicted of serious crimes such as murder, kidnapping, and drug-related offences.
According to a statement released on Wednesday by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Tinubu exercised his constitutional power of prerogative of mercy by signing the revised list of beneficiaries. The review, guided by consultations with the Council of State and public feedback, was conducted under Section 175(1) and (2) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
The statement noted that persons convicted of grave offences — including kidnapping, human trafficking, fraud, and unlawful possession of firearms — were removed from the list. Others previously granted clemency in the earlier list had their sentences commuted instead.
The presidency explained that the decision considered the seriousness of the offences, national security implications, and the need to respect the feelings of victims and the broader public. “The concept of justice as a three-way traffic for the Accused, the Victim, and the State/Society also guided the review,” Onanuga added.
The Nigerian Correctional Service has received the revised list for immediate implementation. In addition, President Tinubu directed the 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.
The Attorney-General of the Federation has also been tasked with drafting new guidelines to ensure that future exercises of presidential mercy include consultations with relevant prosecuting agencies, guaranteeing that only deserving individuals benefit.
President Tinubu expressed gratitude for the constructive feedback from Nigerians and reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to comprehensive judicial reform and strengthening the justice system in the country.
